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COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT 




~ S K ETCHED FR© M^M'UHB BY H S CH ILE 

Pubhsked and Cppjnghted bv M ScMle, I^ i^J6 Divtsion. Street N.York 



To the Proprietors of Hotels and Boarding-Houses. 



'Civile C:hcapc.vt" cinb c^llrc.^t" \vci\i \'o Griiiq ijotir Sunt met c^lCAOt't 



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VERY REASONABLE TERMS, 

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THE ILLUSTRATION 



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SKETCHED FROM NATURE, 



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A Special Guide. 




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SPRING TIME IN THE CATSKILLS. 






PREFACE. 



If there is any resort which can afford the much needed rest and recreation to one who 
is worn out with the cares and troubles of a city life, surely it is the Catskill Mouisttains, 
How delightful a pastime to roam in the free, balmy, spring-like air of a mountainous 
country ! A luxury to all, but especially to those who constantly breathe the salt air 
from the ocean. In tliis respect the Catskill Mountains arc unequaled. 

Deservedly do the Americans call their treasure the "American Switzerland." And 
above all, this perfect gem of Nature's beauty is situated in the immediate neighborhood 
of the great metropolis. It seems as if the gods, in their inscrutable wisdom, had or 
dained that this great city should grow up in the vicinity of the Catskills, that it might- 
have within easy reach, a place of recreation unsurpassed in the splendor of its scenery. 
The mountains are not only a source of pleasure to the city inhabitants, but of something 
far more valuable, which money car.not buy, and that is a sound and healthy condition of 
mind and body. We shall not dwell upon the beneficial effects of a mountainous climate 
upon the constitution. Our judgment is of but little value, compared with the profes- 
sional opinion of such renowned physicians as Doctors Hammond, Loomis, Sayre, etc., 
who have repeatedly borne testimony to the indisputable fact tliat a season spent in the 
mountainous regions, in the midst of all that is beautiful, splendid and invigorating, can- 
not be otherwise than beneficial. On all sides our eyes behold divine and awe-inspiring 
beauty ; and we turn with a grateful heart to Him, the Supreme Architect of the Universe. 

In submitting this work to the public, we believe we arc rendering them a service 
which ought to secure us their good-will. We furnish the reader a safe guide-book upon 
which he can implicitly rely. It is not published solely for the purpose of advertising, 
but, on the contrary, to give the public an idea of tlie beautiful and romantic country so 
near at hand. The illustrations furnished are ftiithful pictui-es from Nature, taken on 
the spot. 

This is not a mere picture-book containing illustrations, witiiout regard to the true 
appearance of the objects they claim to represent. On the contrary, they are exact, hona 
fide pictures of the respective scenery, just as Nature displays them. I have traveled 
neaily all over the Catskill Mountain region, and all I have related in this work is the 
honest statement of one who is prompted by no other motive than that of serving his 
fellow-men, by calling attention to this lovely place, which is so easily reached and at 
such a trifling exjiense ; and which affords the visitor pleasures of such magnitude and 
variety, and benefits of such an eminent order and degree as are ecpnxled by no other 
resort. 

If the perusal of this work is attended with the same amount of pleasure as the pre- 
paration afforded the author, lie will feel himself amply remunerated for the labor he has 
bestowed upon it. 

II. sen U.K. 

New YoiiK. M;iv \<\, LSSL 




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INDEX. •*► 



Page. 

Introductory, . . . • • . 5, (!, 7, 8 

RAILWAY STATIONS. 

Rondout, ....... 

West Hurley Station, ...... 11 

Brown's Station, . . . • • .11 

Broadhead's Bridge Station, ..... 11 

Sliokan Station, . . . . • .11 

Boyceville Station, . . . • ■ • H 

Mount Pleasant Station, ...... 11 

Phoenicia Station, ...... 13 

Fox Hollow, ....... 13 

Shandaken Station, ...... 15 

Big Indian Station, ...... 15 

Pine Hill Station, ...... 16 

Summit Station, ...... 20 

Griffin's Corner, ...... 20 

Dean's Corner, or Arkville, ..... 21 

Kelly's Corners, ...... 21 

Ilalcottville, . . . . • • .21 

Stratton's Falls, . . . ' . . • 22 

Roxbury, ....... "'•'^ 

Grand Gorge, . . . . • • 23 

Stamford. ....... 23 



A Flying Trip into the Catskills, .... 25-37 

Distances for Walking and Drivinsj-. . . . .38 



INDEX 
ULSTER COUNTY. 

Page. 

Bishop Fulls, . . , . . . . +1 

The Creek, ....... 41 

High Point, . . . . . . .42 

A Graveyard in Ulster Co., ..... 43 

Entrance into the Catskill Mountains, . . . .43 

Panorama near Bushkill, . . . . . .45 

Ketehnm Hollow, ....... 45 

Monnt Pleasant, . . . . . . .40 

View from Mount Pleasant, ..... 50 

Entrance to Stony Clove, . . . . . .50 

Mount Sheridan, ...... 53 

To the Slide Mountain, . . . . . .54 



DELAWARE COUNTY. 

The Old Toll-gate, ...... 59 

Coming down to Clriffin's Corner, ..... 01 

The Mountains of Grand Gorge, . . . . 01 



GREENE COUNTY. 

Cauterskill Clove, . . . . . . fiC 

Rip Van Winkle's House, ..... 6(1 

The Catskill Mountain House, ..... OO 

Sunset Eock, . . . . . . 07 

South Lake, . . . . . . .09 

Hunter ....... 70 

Panorama viewed from Bhiek Dome, . . . . .70 

Deep Notch from Wcstkill to Shandaken. ... 73 

Conclusion, ...... 75, 7''> 

Directory . ...... 78. 7!t 

Advertisements, . . . . . .80 



INDEX. 



ILLUSTRATIONS. 



>S])i"iiigtinie in the Catskills, 

Panorama of the Catskills, 

The Weather Witch, 

A Wilderness in the Catskills, 

Ivondout, 

Overlook Mountain, 

\'iew between Phuniieia & Fox Hollow, 

AVoodland Valley, 

Esopus Creek, 

Old Butternut Tree, 

Pine Hill Station, 

Grand View between Pine Hill and Big Indian, 

View from Guigou House, . 

Pine Hill, and Summit. 

Horse-Shoe Bend, from Pine Hill Station, 

Griffin's Corner, 

Roxbuiy, ... 

Stamford, .... 

A Romantic Spot in the Catskills, 

Cauterskill Clove and Profile Roci<. 

Artists' Grotto, near Toll-gate, 

Cauterskill Brook at Dawn, 

Kaaterskill Fall, .... 

Haines and Five Cascades Falls, 

Soutli and North Lake, with view of Cauterskill Hotel, 

Coming through the Notch, 

Cauterskill Clove, between High Peak and South Mountain, 

Storm in Cauterskill Clove, 

Brook in the Catskills, 

Colonel Chair and Hunter Mountain, 

View in Stony Clove, between Ulster and Greene Counties 

Frontispiece to Interesting Places, 

Bishop Falls, ..... 

The Creek beneath Bisho]) Falls. 



Page. 

2 

4 

7 

S 



10 

12 

J3 

14 

15 

k; 

17 
IS 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
20 

Between pages 20 »& 27 

2S 
30 
31 
32 
34 

Between pages 34 cS: 3o 

35 
37 
30 
40 
41 



INDEX. 

Page. 

Graveyard, Ulster County, . • . • • • 42 

Entrance into the Catskill Mountains, . . . .43 

Panorama near Bushkill, ..... 44 

Catholic Church on the road to Shandaken, . . . .45 

Mount Pleasant, ...... 40 

View from Mount Pleasant, . . • . .47 

La Dew Farm, ...... 48 

Mount Cornell, . • ■ • • • .49 

Entrance to Stony Clove from Ulster County, ... 51 

Mount Sheridan with View of Shandaken Valley, . . .52 

'' " " " " Woodland Valley. ... 53 

Mount Wittenburg, . . • • • .55 

Slide Mountain in Winter, ..... 56 

AVinter in Big Indian Valley, . • • .57 

View from Piazza of Grand Hotel, . . • . 58 

The Old Toll-gate, . • • • • .59 

Coming down Griffin's Corner, ..... 60 

Delaware County as viewed from Summit, . . . .61 

Montgomery Hollow, . . • • • .02 

Grand Gorge, . • • • . . 03 

Margaretvillc, . • • • ■ .04 

Iiip Van Winkle's House, ..... 05 

Tiie Catskill Mountain House, . . ■ ■ , • .07 

Sunset Rock, . • '»§ 
South and North Lakes, .-•••■ ^'^^ 

Panorama as viewed from Black Dome, . . 71 

Westkill— Deo Brothers, . . . • .72 

Farming in Greene County, ..... 73 

New York's Philanthropist, . . . .77 



THE PANORAMA OF THE 

CATSKILL MOUNTAINS, 

VIEWED FROM THE HUDSON, 



|UCH has been said in praise of the beautiful Hudson, and her picturesque High- 
lands. This river is deservedly called the "Rhine of America." But the tourist 
Hiust not lose sight of the gorgeous Catskills ! The overwhelming influence of 
the beauty one's eye encounters, in descending the Hudson is, for a time, agree- 
ably set to rest by the gentle hills of Nevvburg, thus varying the effect produced 
by the ever-recurring Highlands, but almost leading one to forget that the most impres- 
sive scene of the Hudson shores is soon to appear : that the Catskill mountains are nigh ! 
No person who desires to take this trip, should neglect to secure, before reaching Rondout, 
a good position on the steamer's deck, from which he may obtain a comprehensive view of 
the splendor and sublimity of these grand old Catskills, which loom up before his eyes ! 
Nature displays her pompous beauty in its fullest grandeur. It matters not how often 
one has beheld this magnificent picture, at every succeeding view it reveals new charms 
and new beauties : the form of the mountains remains ever the same, and the impression 
they convey is engraved on our minds in a manner never to be effaced, never to be for- 
gotten. 

On the western shore is seen a beautiful hillocky land, covered with bush and thicket. 
It extends for a distance of five miles, to the foot of the mountains ; so that looking in 
the direction of Greene County, this large expanse of uneven ground reminds one of the 
constantly heaving billows of a mighty sea, until at last the view is obstructed by the 
abruptly-ascending mountains, which, crowned with the green of the forest, rise to 
majestic heights, and are often veiled by misty clouds. The most delightful picture is 
here presented ; the mountains are clothed in hues most beautifully varied, among which 
blue is strongly predominant. 

On the right bank of the stream are seen the Black Head, and the North Mount, 
South Mount, the Round Top, and, ascending higher than any of these, the High Peak. 
A deep and dark opening appears between these last-mentioned mountains. This dark 
shadow is the Kauterskill Clove, whence the well-known Kauterskill pours forth, and, 
winding its way through the hills, empties into the Hudson. On the northern side of the 
South Mount one can, from the greatest distance, discern a little white spot, which looks 
like a fairy chapel erected by the gods, to enable them to view with ease all the glories of 
the surrounding country. This little white spot is the Mountain House. It gleams 
brightly in the sun, as though extending a hearty welcome to the approaching stranger. 



INTRODUCTORY. 



On the same mountain, a little to the south and higher up, we can see the Kew Hotel, 
which will soon become one of the landmarks of the Catskills. From this spot I witnessed 
the grandest spectacle I ever had the good fortune to behold ; and that was a thunder 
storm on the mountains ! Heavy, dark masses of clouds collected together ; they looked 
like gigantic rocks illuminated with electricity, at another point the clouds shot with 
lightning-like rapidity, first into the heights, then into the depths, as though tlie heavenly 
powers were at war among themselves. With such a spectacle before his eyes, one 
might well ask himself whether he is in heaven or on earth ! At another time, the 
mountains appear as though asleeji ; content with the light and warmth of the sun. On 
a bright day, the whole contour of the mountains is plainly v^ible. The hotels built 
on their steep sides, seem to look down with friendly eyes, and as if by some magnetic 
charm, one feels himself involuntarily drawn to them. There is yet another aspect of 
the mountains, which the Indians have so appropriately termed " The Mountain in the 
Sky." Their body is enveloped by a mist or fog, so that only their crests are visible 
above this fog. One might imagine that fairies and ghosts were dancing around them. 

Whoever desires to behold the wonders of Nature, and has an opportunity to do so 
from this point, will easily understand the fairy tales and Indian legends related about 
this place. Nature herself was the origin of those charming stories, for it is beyond the 
power of expression to describe what gorgeous effects are produced by the illuminated 
mist, fogs, and clouds. 

The Catskills were called by the Dutch, " Kaatsberg," and by the Indians, ''Onit- 
aras. " They abound in tales and legends, one of which I will relate. 

"Once upon a time the children of the red men died away rapidly. They thought 
some monster had come from the salt waters to kill their children. They also imagined 
that by the aid of the Great Spirit, some old woman ruled over them for good or for 
evil, and that her home was on the loftiest peaks of the mountains; that she hid herself in 
her wigwam, and that according as her humor prompted her, she sent them good or bad 
weather. They also believed that this old woman created new moons, remolded the old 
ones, and hung them uji in the sky, and that she kept the winds locked up m groves, 
whence she let them forth at will ; that at times she ascended and soared above mist and 
fog, and seen thus by them, it was considered an ominous foreboding. They thought 
that in times of dry weather, she used to spin light summer clouds out of cobwebs and 
morning dew, and permitted them to descend from the mountains and float in the air 
until dissolved by the rays of the sun. 

" They firmly believed that she caused the blades of grass to grow in Spring, and that 
the fruit ripened and the corn became abundant at her bidding, but that if for some 
reason she feels that she has been offended, she grows angry, and fairly boiling in her 
rage, the heavens assume their blackest hue, and, like a spider on her web, she rides u})- 
on the summit of the clouds. If these clouds break. Woe ! to you, ye valleys !" 

The second panoramic view of the Catskill mountains is taken from the steeple of 
the City Hall at Kingston.' Viewed from this height, the effect is indeed wonderful. 

But my first sight of the Catskills produced the deepest impression on me. This was 
when the train from Eondout made its first stoppage at Wallkill Valley station. From 
this point, one can distinguish the mountain chain, which extends in an oblique direction 
from Overlook to the Catskill Mountain House. Any one who is an admirer of Nature, 



INTRODUCTORY. 




" Like a spicier on lier wel), she rides upon the summit of the clouds. 

Woe ! to you, ye valleys." 



If these clouds break. 



and wislies to view the Catskills here, but has no opportunity to do so from the steeple, 
should not neglect to look at this scenery from the station, and, if possible, at sunrise. 

An excellent prospect is obtained from the steeple. Here, at the left, rises High 
Point. From thence a zig-zag mountain chain extends in the direction of Overlook 
mountain, which is also visible at the left. 

The hilly ground in front obstructs the view of the broad expanse of land below 
these mountain chains. 

The mountains lying between the Overlook and the Catskill House, api^ear to have a 
very peculiar coloring or tint, entirely different from the others, being of a bluish hue. 
This is due to the fact that in the summer, inasmuch as the mountains to the left of the 
Overlook receive the fullest light of the rising sun, the rays are thereby intercepted to a 
great extent, and thus do not fall upon the mountains lying between. At the Overlook 
Mountain House, the highest point of the mountain, the sun's rays diverge as if to spread 
over the entire country. One gazes spellbound from this majestic height. 



INTRODUCTORY. 




A WILDERNESS IN THE CATSKILLS. 



ExteiidJiig towards the riglit, over tlie Ciitskill Mountain House, to the loftiest peaks 
of the distant mountains, the illumination is inexpressibly grand. The mountains 
present a hazy appearance, and owing to their bluish tint, they seem to dissolve away in 
the air. At this point the sun's rays fall everywhere with equal intensity on the moun- 
tain chain, but from a distance it seems as if the shadow of one fell upon the other, thus 
causing the bright light of the sun to appear of a bluish tinge, which gives rise to such 
magical effects. 

The contrast between the two great hotels is greatly emphasized by the fact that the 
Overlook rises directly in front of us, and receives the full benefit of the sun, whereas 
the hotel on the Catskill, being in the distance, gives the impression of a fairy dwelling 
hanging in mid air. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS 




RONDOUT. 



lioxDouT possesses a remarkably pretty little port, which carries on considerable 
traffic, since it owns about thirty small steamers. 

This port is situated between two mountains. The city lies to the right, while on the 
left can be seen a beautiful landscape, dotted all over with pretty little cottages. The 
streets of the city are very irregular and steep. They extend as far as Kingston, which 
village, with Rondout, now forms the city of Kingston. 

Right in front of the mountain is a cement mine, which is a source of interest to the 
visitor. Several brick-kilns are also situated near by. Rondout is chiefly noted for her 
extensive commerce in coal, limestone and cement, and every year this industry is becom- 
ing more extensive. 

At this point the railroad through the Catskills begins. Here is the first steep grade 
of the railway, which extends to the highest point, viz : the Summit. 

Kingston lies on the western banks of the Hudson. Tlie city was founded by the 
Dutch, about two hundred years ago. Three times it was burned to the ground by the 



■10 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 




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Indians, from whose depredations it suffered severely. But the Dutch were alone respon- 
sible for the hatred of the Indians, for cunning and cruelty marked all their dealings with 
the red man. In the year 1777, three thousand British soldiers, led by General Yaughan, 
ransacked tlie city. 

The old adage, ''the mountains are tlic hearth of liberty" proved true again, for the 
people in this region were full of love and devotion to the cause of freedom ! Here, 
where the first State Constitution was drawn np, and where the first State Legislature 
convened, met also- his death the first British spy captured on American soil. A carrier 



THE CATSKILL MOUNT A IKS. 11 



of a dispatch from Clinton proved a traitor, but he divulged his infamous secret to a 
loyal heart ; the spy was arrested, and expiated his crime on the scafEold. 

WEST HURLEY STATION. 

This ii the first station on the way to the Overlook Mountain House. 

It is elevated about 540 feet. A beautiful pathway leads from here through Wood- 
stock, and thence up hill to Mead's House. From Mead's House we can obtain a 
wonderfully picturesque view in all directions. In the back-ground rise the Twin Moun- 
tains and Indian Heads. From Mead's House a steady up-hill road leads through the 
forest directly to the Overlook Mountain House, and from here, a bird's-eye view of the 
surrounding country can be had. The Hotel is situated right in front of the lofty peak 
of the first mountain, thus affording a view of all the country below, as well as the distant 
Hudson Highlands. In clear weather, the scenic effects arc grand beyond description. 
From West Hurley Station, the Overlook Mountain House is jilainly visible, it being on 
an elevation of 3,150 feet. 

The next station, about three miles distant, is Olive Branch, the principal station 
for the neighboring farmers. It lies at an elevation of 511 feet. 

BROWN'S STATION. 

It is about fifteen miles from the Hudson shore, and is situated at a height of about 
525 feet above high water-mark. It is only Avithin six years that this neighborhood has 
been visited as a summer resort. Mr. Lasher began at that time with four boarders. 
Last year he had over fifty guests. This increase alone is sufficient evidence of the 
popularity of the place. 

Not far from Mr, Lasher's, are his neighbors, Messrs. Stratton, Dietrich & Brown, near 
the station. This neighborhood is well adapted for organizing Hying trips into the Cat- 
skills, for it contains excellent pathways, which run in all directions and, from its central 
position, requires no traveling of any consequence. 

BROADHEAD'S BRIDGE STATION. 

This station, being the next in order, is about 5U0 feet above the level of the sea, and 
at a distance of about seventeen miles from the Hudson, and one mile and a half from 
Bishop'* Falls. 

SHOKAN STATION, 

About nineteen miles from the Hudson, and 533 feet above the water level. This is one 
of the most important of all the stations along the line. It is the central point, Avhere 
the railroad makes a sharp turn towards the right, and to the left of which rises the high- 
est mountains. It is very appropriately called the "Inlet into the mountains." 

BOYCEVILLE STATION 
Has an elevation of about 590 feet. The valley is quite narrow here. 

MOUNT PLEASANT STATION. 

This lies about 24 miles from the Hudson, and is 690 feet high. The station is in the 
centre of Mount Pleasant, and opposite to it i> Trempcr Mountain. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 




View between Piicenicia and Fox Hollow. 

Mount Pleasant is one of the longest of the Catskill Mountains, extending, as it does 
rom lioycev.lle to the Woodland Valley, where it shuts out all further inroads to the beau- 
tiful mountains. Mount Pleasant has several very pretty boarding houses, for example, 
tha of Mr. Schumacher s formerly called the - Corner ; " situated on the height; and also 
tnat 01 JVlrs. Lamson. 



THE CATSKILL 3WUNTAINS. 



15 




WooDLAKD Valley, from Moukt Wittenberg. 



PHCENICIA STATION 



Lies about 27 miles from the Hudson, and has an elevation of 700 feet. It is a central 
station, from which to make trips into the gorgeous mountains and beautiful valle3's. Just 
opposite the station, is the well known Trempcr House. This affords as picturesque a view 
{IS any European watering place could impart. A short distance from, and to the left of 
the station is found the Woodland Valley, lying between Phojnicia Station and Fox Hol- 
low. Mount Sheridan looms up directly in front; to the right you may see Mount Trem- 
per ; to the left, Mount Eomer, and in the distance. Panther IMountain. On the road to 
the Stony Clove, we pass the Tremper House, and arrive at Chichester which is so cele- 
brated for its chair manufacturies. The distance from Phoenicia to Stony Clove is about 
11 miles. A pretty pathway through the valley, leads to it. 

Passing Stony Clove, the road branches to the right and to the left. The former 
branch goes to Tannersville, the latter to Hunter Green County. 



FOX HOLLOW, 

The next station, is 99G feet high, and is the nearest entry to Woodland Valley.- 



u 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 







Esopus Cjieek. 



THE CAT8KILL MOUNTAINS. 



15 



To the left of 
Slumdaken Station, 
there stands a re- 
markable butternut 
tree said to be eighty 
years old. When but 
seventy-live years 
old, it is reported to 
have yielded a crop 
of seventy-five bush- 
els of nuts. I had 
heard so much about 
the tree that I de- 
termined to visit it ; 
but last Fall, on go- 
ing to sec it, I found 
it bare and naked, 
and sketched it just 
as seen at the time. 
I am told that its 

shadow covers a surface of eighty-five feet. I discovered, also, that in the course of 
time, an amputation had been performed on the old fellow, to make room for the 
railroad. 




SHANDAKEN STATION 

Is situated about 33 miles from the Hudson, is about 10(39 feet above the water level, and 
lies at the foot of the Panther Mountain. Shandaken is the central jioint of the Shan- 
daken Valley. There is a jiatli from here to Westkill. The scenic effects i)roduced by 
the mountains are magnificent. 

Before reaching Westkill we pass through the Deep Notch or Deep Hollow. The val- 
ley extending from Shandaken to Westkill has been luimed the " Bushnellville Hollow." 
In these deep narrow straits of the mountains, ice can be found at all times of the year, 
I'vcn in the heat of summer. At the corner of Bushnellville Hollow, there is a fine hotel, 
known as Lament's Hotel. 



BIG INDIAN STATION 

Is situated in the wilderness, thirty-six miles from the Hudson, and 1,209 feet above the 
water level. The Big Indian Valley contains the inlet to Slide Mountain, which rises to 
the height of 4,230 feet. The distance from the Station, through the valley, to the high- 
est point of Slide Mountain, is about eleven miles. Dutcher, the guide, lives five miles 
from here. 

At Big Indian Station, the railroad turns to the right, Avhere a steep grade com- 
mences, of llo feet to the mile. After crossing a narrow pass, the railroad runs over a 
small bridge, thus passing from mountain to mountain. From the Guigou House, located 
up here, you can obtain a remarkably fine view of the surrounding scenery. 



THE CATNKILL 3WUNTA1NS. 

















Big Indian. Elevation 1,20'J ft. 



PINE HILL STATION, 

'I'hirty-Jiiue miles from the Hudson ; 1,G(J0 feet in liciglit, and situated at the end of the 
valley. This is a charming little village, and no lovelier view of it can he ohtained than 
lluit from the railway on the mountain ahove. 

Ahove the Station, the railroad nuikcs a horse-shoe turn, thus enabling the traveler to 
keep Pine Ilill constantly in view. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



17 













18 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 







■j^^^SS.* "•„^?^ 





View from Guicou House 



The distance from the Station to the highest iioiut which tlie cars pass here, is two 
miles. 

The boundary line between Ulster and Delaware Counties also passes tlirougli here. 

The stream which flows down the mountain, divides, at this point, into two branches. 
The one running toward Pine Hill, and emptying into the Hudson, is known as the Esopus 
Creek. The one flowing by Griffin's and Dean's Corners, empties by Margaretville into 
the East Branch Delaware. 



THE CATSEILL MOUNTAINS. 



19 




Pine Hill and Summit. Elevation 1,160 ft. 



Pine Hill has been for many years a popular summer resort. 

The proprietor of the Pine Hill Hotel, Mr Cole, does not claim for it the elegance and 
beauty of the large New York Hotels, but, under the circumstances, it possesses every 
comfort desirable, and, the terms being reasonable, is well calculated to please all its 
patrons. 



20 



THE CATS KILL MOUNTAINS. 




llousivyiioE Bend, fuom Pine Hill Station, 
(View of Grand Hold.) 

SUMMIT STATION. 

This is the very highest point tliat the railroiid reaches. It is 1,88G feet in height 
and about two miles distant from Pine Hill. 

A few steps and we are at the Urand Hotel ; and even this short walk, leading through 
.such a beautiful, shady pathway, constitutes one of the great attractions of the place. 



GRIFFIN'S CORNER 

Is forty-four miles from Rondout, and 1,510 feet in height. This is, likewise, a favorite 
summer resort. It is tlie first place of its kind in Delaware County, and is about three 
miles distant from the Summit Mountain. The railroad here makes wonderful turns 
around the mountains and i)recipices. The Station is about two miles below the village. 
It is charmingly located, and one can scarcely imagine anything more charming than the 
picture of the pretty little village, as seen from the railroad running high above it. 

There arc many excellent boarding-houses here, prominent among which is Mr. Biihler's. 
'IMiis House deserves to be recommended for its appropriate situation and good manage- 
nuMit. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 




GlllFFIN'y COUNEU 

DEAN'S CORNER, OR ARKVILLE. 

This is about forty-eiglit miles from the Hudson, and is situated opjiosite the Pakata- 
ghkan Mountain, which rises to the height of 3,000 feet. 

Dean's Corner has an elevation of 1,334 feet. The railroad turns to the right here, 
while the water takes its course to the left, and, at Margaretville, flows into the East 
Branch Delaware. From here tlie valleys rise, and continue to do so as far as Stamford. 
The distance to Margaretville is not over one mile. Mr. Ackerly keeps a very fine 
hotel and boarding-house there, and omnibusses connect with all trains. 

KELLY'S CORNERS. 

The Station following is Kelly's Corners, fifty-two miles from the Hudson, and 1,37"4 
feet above the water level. A pathway to the right leads through the beautiful Batavia- 
kill Valley. The little river, East Branch, (so named from the Delaware), fliows from 
the Grand Gorge, eastward to Margaretville. 



HALCOTTVILLE, 

Fifty-three miles from the Hudson, and 1,390 feet in height. 

This is a remarkably cool place. At the bridge, the stream is broad and well adapted 
for fishing and rowing. 



THE CATSKILL 3I0UXTA1XS. 




ROXBURY. 



STRATTON'S FALLS 

Is 57 miles from the Hudson, and 1456 feet in lieight. If you are desirous of seeing the 
Falls, you will be obliged to turn to the left towards the mountain, which is at a consid- 
erable distance from the railroad. 

ROXBURY 

Is 59 miles from the Hudson, and 1407 feet above the level of the sea. It is one of the 
important stations, and contains many summer boarding-houses. 

The wide valley is wonderfully pretty, resembling those that are to be seen in the 
mountainous districts of South Germany. 

The main street runs straight through the village, and for a mile at least, it is bor- 
dered with neatly built dwellings and churches, and tastefully arranged gardens. At the 
end of this long street, the road turns to the right, leading to Grand Gorge. The valley 
itself is called Montgomery Hollow. This Hollow produces a very jieculiar impression 
upon the eye. The valley having the api)earancc of a viaduct, is somewhat hilly on the 
right. We can see the remainder of what was formerly, a mighty forest. The tree- 
stumps rise t'l a height of about four and one-half feet, and as they stand there in rows, 
present a ghostly appearance. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 




brAMiouD, Dtlaw.ut Co. 



GRAND GORGE, (Moresville.) 

Is Go miles distmit from ilie Hudson, and 1570 feet high. It is one of the most romantic, 
magnificent, ravines in Delaware Countv. 



STAMFORD 

Is about 14: miles from liondout, and is situated, on a height of 17'')T feet. This is tlie 
highest A'illage of all those along the railroad. 

Tlie mountainous district in this vicinity resembles that of CJreene Coiinty. The 
mountains themselves do not appear to be so lofty as they are said to be ; but this is due 
to the fact that the valleys are quite high. To the left of Stamford can bo seen the mag- 
nificent Mount Utsyanthia JMountain, which rises io a heighth of 3,305 feet. A pretty 
hotel Avill be erected on its summit. 

This will undoubtedly prove a very popular resort, as it is excellently situated, and is 
the terminus of the railroad. Two trains come and go daily, thus giving the visitor ample 
time to view the surrounding countrv. 



{TJie End </f Pudlroad Sfntions.) 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 




A ROMANTIC SPOT IN THE CATSKILLS. 



A FLYING TRIP INTO THE CATSKILLS 



MEMORABLE NEIGHBORHOODS IN GREENE COUNTY. 



^fHE most interesting: trip is a visit to tlie well-known Ciitskill. You can reach the 
■ f village by way of the Hudson liiver Eailroad, or by the Albany steamers. Having 
arrived there, refreshments can be obtained at the Irving House, whoso hospitable and 
obliging landlord never fails to secure his guests an excellent fare at very reasonable 
terms. Another hotel which deserves to be mentioned, is the Prospect Park Hotel. 
This is the only jilace which, situated at a high point, can be recommended to those Avho 
desire to spend a summer season here, since the air is ever cool and balmy, and a magnifi- 
cent view can be enjoyed over the Hudson ; and in the opposite direction there is a Hue 
panoramic scene, — the village in the fore-ground and behind it the Catskill jMountains. 

It was on an exceedingly warm spring day that I first visited this beautiful country, 
and must confess that I found it here absolutely scorching, and the deeper you enter the 
village, the more oppressive becomes the heat. Just above the village, where tlie princi- 
pal summer resorts are situated, the temperature is the highest, and it is entirely beyond 
my comprehension what jileasure can be found in these localities, where one can do 
nothing but ])erspire all day long. I pity those people who, with their fixed notions to 
visit the so-called ••fashionable" hotels, have no regard for their comfort and health, 
but allow themselves to swelter in the burning rays of the sun. I even met some there 
who were so sunburnt, that they looked like boiled lobsters. JS'ot even a good draught 
of fresh, cool spring water can be obtained tliere, which makes the oppressiveness of the 
heat doubly felt. Towards evening, the long-legged musicians, the mosquitos, make 
their appearance, and perform their entertaining concerts. The best thing one can do 
on such days is to engage a seat on a passing stage, and to turn his back on these places. 
The fare on the stage, all the way up to the Laurel House, is only two dollars. Close by 
the house is a primeval forest, and the Kaaterskill Fall. This neighborhood is therefore 
always cool. From the village, the road turns to the left, and from hill to bill. It is 
not only good all the way, but also cool and shady. 

The views arc beyond expression — fine and picturesque in their effect. High up 
before us we constanily have the beautiful Mountain House in view, and the beautiful 
bluish tint of the mountains approaches nearer and nearer, till, having arrived at the 
entrance to the Cauterskill Clove, all this view is lost to sight, and an entirely new 
picture is spread before our eyes. " Turning into the Clove, we behold on both sides high 
mountains, the extremities of which cannot be seen. At the left side rises the High 
Peak, and to the right the South Mountain, which constitute the Clove. Eight in front 



^6 



THE CATSKILL 310 U NT A INS. 




CaUTEKSKH.L ('i.OVK and PliOFILE liOCK. 



luid higli up on South Mountain, is tlie fli'iuul View ; but tlie liouse is neglected, and, 
notwithstanding its excellent location, affords no scenic effect whatsoever. This is not 
at all remarkable, since even the color of the building lacks all freshness, and instead of 
l)eing bright and gay, it is dreary and gra}^, like the rocks surrounding it. It is said that 
this house, so excellently situated, became the property of an ill-disposed but wealthy 
man, through some peculiar money transaction, and that, on account of competition, he 
permits this beautiful place to go to ruin. 

What a pity that here, too, as in otiici- lands, great wealth can not only promote 
good, but als(^ spread evil. 




ARTISTS' GROTTO, NEAR TOLL-GATE, CAUTERSKILL CLOVE. 




CAUTERSKILL BROOK AT DAWN. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 27 



Passing below in the valley and gazing up into the immense height, we behold this 
house hanging on u front rock as if it were put tliere by magic power. It looks like a 
})icture in the German Black Forest, where robbers' abodes look from the'proud height 
down into the vales below. 

Farther above on the road, another hotel and several houses are seen. At the hotel the 
stage stops, and the horses are led to drink. An artist has made his home here, and the 
house he occupies is quite remarkable for its peculiar form and color. The place is called 
Palenville. Turning towards a corner and looking down from the height, Ave see in 
the depth below tlie Cauterskill streamlet winding her way through many little water- 
falls towards the Hudson. The foliage is balmy and green, and if it could be protected 
from the occasional fires, there would soon be a young forest here. Nothing can surpass 
the charming effect of the sun's rays falling on the verdant foliage and on the mighty 
walls of the giant rocks surrounding, and often rising from the very midst of the 
streamlet which flows in gentle murmurs before us. The banks of the streamlet seem to 
have been excavated, and the gray color of the rocks which form these banks, is often 
changed into the brightest hue of green by the abundance of moss growing here. The 
whole scenery is magnificent beyond description. 

Still further up, and again turning a corner, we observe a mighty mass of rock 
arranged in layers. Then we have Profile Eock before us, and at last our way leads over 
More's Bridge. The shape of these jocks is quite remarkable, and they seem to be 
entirely smooth as if artificially polished, and in their sides deep cracks, often extending 
to a depth of 1500 feet, are visible. They are shaped like towers — at least they appear so 
when viewed from one side. The road becomes more and more steep, and leads towards 
the right, passing the Buttermilk Fall. 

In the vale below, ruins of houses and of tan mills are visible, calling to mind of the 
brutal force and cruelty with which once the splendid forests of this country were 
devastated. The road leads also over the bridge spanning the original Cauterskill brook, 
which near by here unites with tlie Haines brook. 

Taking at this bridge the road to the right and through the Clove, we reach in about 
half-an-hour the Laurel House. The main road is so steep that a horse has enough to do 
to draw even an empty wagon. Constantly ascending, we at last reach an elevated plain, 
and a table land extends before us. The Haines Fall flows at the end of the valley over 
a precipice, and, descending perpendicularly into the depth below, the falling waters 
sparkle brilliantly, thus presenting a magnificent sight. This is the boundary of the 
valley. 

Having reached the Highland, no one should neglect to cast a glance backwards. 
After reaching a high point at Haine's summer resort, he will then behold the deep clove, 
and the valley will appear as if it were totally shut in and closed. The whole effect is 
thus very pretty ; the high land has here an elevation of a))out 2,000 feet, ^ye see right 
in front of us the South Mountain, and the i^recipitous rock thereon, called Sunset Eock, 
recognizable by several gigantic trees, whose i;ppcr branches are very luxuriant, standing 
up there as if hanging in the air. Towards the right the High Peak is seen as if reaching 
the clouds, and through an aperture in the rocks a good view of the Highland of the 
Hudson can be secured. The immense distance causes everything to assume a bluish 
tinge bordered with silver, and the vision becomes lost in the far distance. 

We continue our way towards the summer resorts. The road leads in a roundabout 
direction over a bridge, beneath wliicli fresh spring waters flow gently toward Haines Falls. 




i\. ^>*"^N vf:, 



Kaatkkskim, Fall. 



THE CATSKILL MOlfNTAtNS. 29 



Piissing the bridge, a sharp corner brings lis to the so-called Haine's Corner. The road 
from here leads over the mountains' peaks, from which the view is truly grand looking. 
Towards Tannersville and Hunter, the picture in the distance is magnificent. 

Up in the height, we behold at the left the new Kaatei'skill Hotel, looking as charm- 
ing in the midst of the verdant foliage as any of the most beautiful castles of Europe. 
Another turn, and somewhat downward through a beautifully-shaded path, and we reach 
the Laurel House. AVhat a contrast between this house and those " fashionable *' houses 
in the village. This one is situated in a sort of cavity, but it is as airy and cool as 
can be. It has a reputation for its splendid location ; and even if it is warm inside, one 
can easily remedy his position by stepping out of the house and enjoying the beautiful 
country surrounding it. There is a splendid old wood right in front of the house, and it 
seems as if the owner of the hotel and of the country around it, Mr. J. L. Schutt, would 
well understand and accordingly appreciate the value of a cultivated forest. The forest 
has the appearance of a beautiful, well-kept park, and pretty pathways traverse it in all 
directions. At the left, a stairway leads down into tlie valley, and' having descended 
about 200 feet we suddenly hear the peculiar noise of the waterfall which is near bv, and 
which sounds like the continued reports of a pistol. Having arrived below, an indes- 
cribably beautiful sight is before us. The water falling from the height, gives off spray 
which the winds carry in all directions ; the bulk of the water collects itself, and falls 
over a second precipice into a depth of about 50 feet, where a pretty rustic bridge has 
been built. Here, near an immense rock, one has the very best opj^ortunity to view the 
waterfall. Seen from here, it is a most dazzling sight, especially at a time when the rays 
of the sun break into the falling water. The noise made by the fall is very loud, as it 
necessarily must be, considering that the water rolls from a heighth of 185 feet. The 
Kaaterskill waterfall is by no means the largest in the world, but in point of picturesque- 
ness, in the beauty of the surrounding country, and the splendor of the scenery, it can 
not be surpassed by any in nature. It is in fact a double waterfall of the most imposing- 
character. A'iewed from above, we see the water flowing with terrible force over the 
precipice, and it seems as if the falling mass had been converted in mid air into one 
mighty avalanche of snow, for the foaming and frothing of the water gives to it the color 
of the falling snow. Many a picture has been taken of this waterfall, and although it is 
usual, in pictures representing natural sceneries, to make them look more beautiful than 
in reality they are, it must be said that no picture ever made, representing this scenery, 
did full justice to it. Not only can art not create a picture more beautifiil than tlie- one 
we sec here, but it cannot even approach it. Xo artist ever succeeded in representing the 
scene in such beauty as it appears to the astonished eye. It is just as difficult to describe 
the scenery justly. Again we find here the truth of the oft-repeated assertion that 
Nature and creation are mightier than even the human heart imagines. 



HAINES AND FIVE CASCADES FALLS. 

Above the Fall one can enjoy a beautiful view of the Cauterskill Clove and an excel- 
lent prospect over the plains of the Hudson. Looking down, it appears as if an eruption 
had excavated or hollowed out the earth below, and had thrown up the rocks lying around 
there. From its innermost depths these large rocks show the influence of the waters 
flowing constantly over them, since thev are smooth and even : — -trunks of what were 



THE CATSKILL 3fOUNTAIKS. 




Haines and Five Cascades Falls. 



THE CATSKILL MOU^fTAMS. 



31 




boUTH AND NOUTII LaKE, WITH ViEW OF CAUTEKSKILL lioTEL. 



once giguntic trees are also seen. IIow innocent and noiseless is tlio water falling 2>er- 
pendicularly over the rocks, Ijut how terribly impetuous in its fall into an abyss of 300 
feet. In this depth everything bears witness of the irresistible force which the rocks 
sometimes give to these waters. Inasmuch as the waterfall is very light in summertime, 
it is a source of wonder to many from whence the brook below springs, and why it is pure 
spring water, clear as crystal, and a pleasant contrast to the waters of Kaaterskill Fall, 
which, flowing from the North and South Lakes, are slimy. 

These two last-mentioned lakes were at times very mucli dreaded, and the legend says 
that snakes and reptiles made their homes in these waters and in the bulrushes of their 
l)anks. Now-a-days, no trace of them can be seen, and inasmuch as the whole country 
here has become a modern roaming ground, even the once magnificent primeval wood 
has lost all its glory and charms. A beautiful jiathway now divides the two lakes, and no 
remains of the former wilderness can be found. This evinces the power and skill of 
human ingenuity, which changes an unapproachable wilderness into a beautiful pleasure 
ground. 

There is no room for doul^t that the ancient legends and stories which are rehited 
concerning these two lakes, had at one time been told with some show of justification. 
Years and years ago, it must really have been the most forsaken place on eartli. The 
waters of the lake being still impure, trout will not live in it as yet, though efforts have 
been made to climatize it there. The little stream above the Haines Fall flows in a 
north-western course towards the high mountains, where the valley expands to a great 
width, — no trace, not even a bush of the once splendid forest that grew here, can be 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 




COMING THROUGH THE NOTCH. 



THE CATS KILL 310 U NT A IKS. 



found. The little brook we have mentioned is, throughout the whole of her course, ex- 
posed to the rays of the sun, and it is really wonderful that a drop of it remains to flow 
into the fall. 

Had the forest of the country not been destroyed, the brook would have remained 
full of water, and all the year round there would have been sufficient to su])ply the fall. 
What Avill the coming generations say of us if this devastation of the foliage of the land 
continues ? They will ask : Where is the boasted s[)lendor of these mountains ; Where 
is the beautiful Kaaterskill ; and Avhere the pretty Haines Falls we read about ? Xot a 
drop of water will be found there ; barrenness and sand will be left to give evidence of 
our wantonness and carelessness. Now is the time to consider and to change for the 
better ! All is green and blooming as yet. The air is mellow, sweet and balmy. 

And yet, in spite of all this, must wo see the blessing of our country evidently des- 
troyed. Let us hope that more appreciation of Nature's bounty, and that a better spirit 
will prevail among the inhabitants of this region, for Avhile as yet nature is rich and 
charming hereabouts, evidences of the evil influence of the destruction carried on are 
already visible. The time has come Avlien devastation of the forests should be discon- 
tinued — nay, when die woods deserve careful and expert nursing. To destroy the 
woods is a sin against Nature and against mankind I 

Standing above Haines Falls, wliicli lies at the close of the deep valley known as 
Cauterskill Clove, the view over the wide valley which extends over Hunter and Lex- 
ington to the AVestkill Notch, will give evidence of the devastation of the forest. Viewed 
from below at its first fall, the height of it appears to be about 100 feet ; and the rocks 
rising in the excavation below, are of gigantic dimensions. The waters fall perpendicu- 
larly over these rocks, and especially over a multitude of smaller stones lying around. 
In the very midst of tlie fall is an immensely big rock, which, for a time, entirely hides 
the water from our view, but the water appears soon again, flowing from rock to rock to 
the second fall, where it rolls into a depth of over forty feet. From here, a stair-road 
leads the visitor into the depth from the right side to the left, and we descend so far as 
the ladder will reach. Let every one be warned not to attempt to climb lower, for he 
endangers the possibility of his safe return. Having arrived below, we take a seat on the 
rock, and as much in the centre of it as possible. From here one can obtain the best 
view of the most imposing sight. Looking up, we behold the clift three to four hundred 
feet liigh, growing narrower at the top, and into which the sun's rays but sparingly enter. 
Just at the entrance of the clift, beautiful and rich green bushes grow, and the sun-liglit 
falling on the verdant foliage, produces a most brilliant effect. 

While admiring this scene, we suddenly behold the Five Cascades in their full 
grandeur, and above is a height almost impossible to reach with the naked eye. 

Glancing around and above us in this depth, wo involuntary ask : AVho has created 
thee, thou splendid Fall ? We praise Thee, oh Almighty ! thou wise Creator of the 
universe ! To give a word-picture of this scenery, human language is but too weak. 

I have attempted to give as good and as correct a representation as possible, so as 
to enable the reader to have an approximate idea of how beautiful the scenery is. 

But how weak are all human efforts compared to Nature's grandeur. It is commonly 
said that the jiictures of scenery are exaggerated, and that canvas is patient ; but this 
is not the case when viewing this picture. Where is the artist who could, even after 
the labor of years, give a thoroughly true i)icture of nature's beauty, and the magnificent 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



t'^35'^ 






/ 



/ 




Lkvatioii 0")() It 



Cauteiiskili, Ci.ovk — i5rtwp:en High Peak and South Mountain. 

coloring due to tlie sun's ruvs ? Thus, both of tlu^sc waterfalls have their own character- 
istic beauty, and it is difficult to decide which of these two is the more striking in its 
effect, and which of these natural wonders is the grander. 



COLONEL CHAIR AND HUNTER MOUNTAIN, 



This i)oculiar, elliptical-shaix'd mountain lies dii-cctly in tlic line of the charming 
Hunter, and runs lengthwise with the Schoharie- Kill Creek. It has been mentioned 
previously that the valley lies at a height of about 1,700 feet, and the (V)lonel Chair 




STORM IN CAUTER3KILL CLOVE. 




BROOK IN THE CATSKILLS ENCLOSED BY BIRCH TREES. 



TEE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



35 




£iS£TCM£if rSQi^ JI^ZUS£ £1 tLPUia£m 



Colonel Chaiu and Hunter Mountain, 



Mountuin is about 3,000 feet high. From here, therefore, only a little over 1,000 feet are 
to be ascended, in order to reach the mountain's top, and thus an excellent opj)ortunity 
is afforded to summer boarders of arriving at the summit without much effort, and 
thereby gaining a fine view over the neighboring country. 

The prospect includes the magnificent Hunter Mountain, rising to a height of over 
4,000 feet, and which is hardly two miles away, though Hunter is surrounded by all the 
signs of modern civilization, it yet possesses an extraordinary amount of romantic and 
wildly-interesting charms given to it by the neighboring mountains. Excellent pathways 
lead from it in all directions, so that every point of interest can easily be approached. 
The valley beneath is deep and broad and affords good facilities for farming. This spot 
is most familiar to tourists, and has been visited as a most popular resort for summer 
boarders a greater number of seasons than any other part of the Catskills. It is a pity 
that the farmers of this neighborhood could not appreciate the value of the beautiful 
forests that once flourished here. They have so thoroughly exterminated all the trees, 
that now they suffer from want of wood for their building purposes, and are obliged to 
send to Albany for it. How pleasant and invigorating is the scent of the needle-wood 
foliage ! But where is it now ? The picture I have drawn represents the scene in the fog 



36 THE CATSKILL MOUNTAIN:^. 



of a moonlit eve. It was October already, when my daughter and I roamed about here, 
and the splendid Hunter Mountain was already covered with snow. The picture of the 
white-capped mountain head glittering in the light of the pale moon, is inexpressibly 
beautiful, the verdant country above us appears as if studded Avitli diamonds. 

The winter liad set in at an early day, and we had to discontinue our researches in 
this neighborhood much earlier than we intended. This mountain-liead has the peculiar 
name of Colonel Chair Mountain, showing conclusively that its god-father and christener 
had but very little poetry within him, and even less appreciation for the beauties of 
nature. The shape of the mountain is very peculiar. It has the form of an ellipse, and 
viewed in the later days of the autumn when foliage and bush are destitute of their green 
coverings, the whole contour of the mountain is most distinctly seen and appreciated. 
Round rocky layers encircle the mountain, lending it the appearance of a fort erected by 
human hands. So illusive is the appearance of tliese step-like layers, that if we possessed 
stories of robbers' castles and abodes, as European countries do, one would certainly 
believe that these layers were artificially built to protect the robbers' nest on the mountain 
top, just as those on the German mountains in the black forest and on the lihine were 
erected by the vassals and the serfs of their warlike inhabitants. What dark and gloomy 
days were those for Germany, — not much better even at this day — when on every moun- 
tain or so, another brave, bold and unscrupulous warrior lived and ruled supreme, where- 
ever the might of his sword was acknowledged ! All these plagues are unknown in this 
happy land of freedom. 

As mentioned above, the ascension of these mountains is much easier at this place than 
at any other spot; consequently, the tourists have a special liking for it. 

The morning is always cool and refreshing, and never damp or sultry, and the atmos- 
phere has a much more recuperating effect than elsewhere. 

Ascending this mountain, one can enjoy an elegant view, over the zig-zag-like moun- 
tain heads of the surrounding country ; and to witness a sunrise or sunset from this place 
affords a picture of beauty and a grandeur, such as can not be obtained from the lliitli. 

The Catskills possess in their great variety of scenery such romantic views as perhaps 
no other mountainous country can boast of. While enjoying this prospect, we are apt to 
forget that thousands of feet beneath this misty fog resting on the mountain, mankind is 
busy in its daily routine. While high up here, we seem to look over the rolling waves of 
the ocean. At another time, viewed by the bright light of the morning, only the zig-zag- 
like mountain heads are visible, and it looks as though the rays of sun had gilded them 
and clad them in their own blending colors. Viewing these pictures, we must acknowl- 
edge that creation is mighty, mightier and more inscrutable than a human heart can 
conceive of. Thousands of the most beautiful pictures of nature can be enjoyed here. 
He who has any appreciation for natural beauty, will never tire of them, for every day, 
nay, every hour, changes the scene, and ever and anon, a new picture of the panorama 
comes into sight. For him who has seen, and is acquainted with, the black forests and 
Switzerland, and who has viewed the Catskills, the difference will he but one of the 
historical aspects of the country. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



37 



^^; 

;':^?-:": 




A View in Stony Clove, between 
Ulster and Greene Counties. 

The road has an elevation of 
1,800 feet. On the left side the 
gigantic rocks appear the same 
as the Palisades on the Hudson. 
Several largo rocks are seen pro- 
jecting similar to those surround- 
ing Lake Mohonk, — on the right 
side the stony mountains form 
tlie Notch. 



3S THE CATSKILL BIOUNTAINS. 



DISTANCES FOR WALKING AND DRIVING. 



Laurel House derived its name from the laurels which abound in the neighborhood^ 
and it is conveniently located to visit all the most prominent places in this region. 

It is about 15 miles from Catskill Village. The Kaaterskill Falls, and the forest 
around it, are the property of J. L. Schutt, proprietor of the Laurel House, who well under- 
stands and appreciates the value of a good forest. A nice road for about two miles leads 
from here to Catskill Mountain House, passing North and South Lakes. Keeping to the 
right, and over the South Mountain about 1}^ miles, we reach Hotel Kaaterskill. Half 
way on the same road we arrive at Sunset Eock ; then in an opposite direction from Lau- 
rel House, it is about 1)4 miles. Passing Prospect Eock to Haines Falls, an old wooden 
road through the forest leads us to Plaaterkill Clove, Plaaterkill Falls, and Plaaterkill 
Mountain : the distance is about G miles. This is one of the wildest romantic places of 
the whole region. From here is also the easiest way to reach the Overlook Mountain. 

The whole valley is a regular wilderness from one end to the otlier. The Clove and 
valley lie in the direction of Saugerties, and runs out near Tannersville. The whole 
range of mountains that meet in Plaaterkill Valley, assume a different form entirely from 
the others. Some are formed like the Pyramids in Egypt. 

The author begs to be excused. The time being too short, it is now impossible to illus- 
trate this region, but will, in the next edition, picture all these wild, romantic places here 
described. 

From Tannersville to Hunter is about 4 miles. From Hunter House it is only four 
miles to the beautiful Stony Clove ; 11 miles to Hotel Kaaterskill ; 9 miles to Plaaterkill 
Clove ; 9 miles to Kaaterskill Falls ; 7 miles to Haines Falls ; 8 miles to Overlook Moun- 
tain House ; 9 miles to Jewett Heights ; 10 miles to Lexington ; 14 miles to Westkill, 
and from Deo Brothers, Westkill, through the Clove, 7 miles to Shandaken, Ulster 
County. The roads are excellent in all directions. 



40 



THE CATSKILL MOVKTAIKS. 



Ulster County. 




Bisiioi' Falls. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



41 



BISHOP FALLS. 

The Bishop Falls, near Olive City, are very beautiful, and are constantly visited by 
summer boarders. Of course in dry weather you cannot expect to see as great a fall as in 
other seasons of the year. This place possesses splendid facilities for bathing and boating, 
as may be seen from the picture, which also represents the mighty rocks on either side of 
the waterfall. 




THE CREEK. 



The picture represents the creek beneath IMsliop Fulls, as viewed on a pleasant sum- 
mer's eve. It is taken from a high point in front, looking up the creek. In the back- 
ground is seen High Point. The picture will be easily recognized by all who have ever 
boarded at Mr. Lasher's or thereabout. It is a popular summer resort, "and a favorite spot 
for boarders, in consequence of its bathing and boating facilities. Tho^-e who have never 
visited this lovely spot, ought not to neglect to do so at their earliest op])ortunity. 



■4-? 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



HIGH POINT. 

Tliis magnificent mountain, which is about 3300 feet high, is the most eagerly sought 
for by all summer boarders. 
It thoroughly deserves its pop- 
ularity, for it is a beautiful 
spot. On the top of this 
mountain there is a wide ex- 
panse of level ground, which 
at one side is abruptly termi- 
nated by a yawning abyss. 
Another remarkable feature 
is also connected with this 
mountain. Near the summit, 
and on level ground, there lies 
a rock which has a triangular 
chasm. From this aperture, 
the bright waters of a rivulet 
issue ; but this spring is sub- 
ject to the laws of the ebb and 
flow of the tide. Many, who 
have at one hour of the day 
enjoyed the freshness of this 
spring, a little later on, have 
found it dried up. At the 
time of their ebb and flow, 
the waters of this spring have 
a disagreeable sulphur taste. 
This inexplicable phenomen- 
on naturally excites wonder 
and amazement. 

Grave- Yakd, Ulster Co. — High Point in the Distance. 




A GRAVEYARD IN ULSTER COUNTY. 

Throughout the Catskill Mountains one can find many such graveyards as the one here 
shown; but this is the most neglected home of the dead I have found in Ulster County. 
On some barren spot of the mountain side, we can discover traces of former graveyards, 
but the constant slidings of the earth have destroyed them; and who knows but Avhat some 
wild beast or another has gnawed the bones of those consigned to their everlasting sleep? 
The farmers, in burying their dead, usually select the most accessible spots; and as is often 
the case when the farm changes ownership, the sanctity of the plot, where dear ones lie 
buried, is often lost; the place is neglected, and the graveyard, Avhich we are wont to look 
upon with reverential awe, and to preserve in good order, becomes a wretched Potter's field. 
Such is the picture represented here. In the back-ground i ^ses High Point. When I first 
looked upon this and other kindred places, I could not help thinking that the dead buried 
there, were put there not only to their eternal rest, but also to be eternally forgotten. 



1HK CATSRILL MOVNIAINS 



4S 




%«;£ 






//.-"■-■-'■ 







P^^M^^ 






S'3!^Sfe: 




ENTRANCE INTO THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 

The ijicfcure shows the entrance into the Catskill Mountains. To the left is seen the 
base of High Point ; Simon's Point lies to the right, while in the background rises Cross 
Mountain. The scene represents a bright moonlight night, while the deep valley beneath 
is shrouded in a misty fog. It is but a distance of four miles to Shokan, where you arrive 
at the foot of the grandest of the Catskill Mountains. Here the railway turns to the 



u 



11 IK CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



m.^ 



W 




THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



right, but the pedestrian fol- 
lows the opposite direction, 
until he reaches the valley 
known as Bushkill A' ale. Con- 
tinuing the road to the left 
you will find yourself in that 
portion of the valley, in the 
rear of High Point. There is 
also a splendid fishing pond 
situated here. 

PANORAMA NEAR 
BUSHKILL. 

This scene represents the 
chain of mountains, which be- 
gin at Bushkill, and which 
constitute what is known as 
Ketchum Hollow. I have 
taken the picture from a point 
of the mountain just opposite 
Weidner's Boarding-house, on 
the mountain road from Sho- 
kan to Mount Pleasant. To 
the artist who is desirous of 
making an elaborate drawing 
of the scenery, this is the most 
advantageous point as well as 
Catholic Chukch on the Road to Shandaken. ^^^^ ^^^^j. accessible. This 

neighborhood has a lovely situation at the base of the High Mountains: for both tourists 
and boarders who appreciate the beauty of nature acknowledge- that they could not have 
selected a pleasanter place than this. In the vicinity and even further back among the 
mountains, a number of farmers live. Another boarding-house is represented in the picture. 
The first mountain peaks are Sam's Point, Blackberry Point, Cross Mountain, Wittenberg 
Cornell and Hanover Mountains. At the left extends the base of High Point, and the 
beautiful valley with the charming trout creek. It is somewhat remarkable that just at 
this point, only four miles from Shokan, all the high mountains commence, thus afiiording 
a scene Avhich in its beauty and grandeur cannot be surpassed by any in Switzerland. 




KETCHUM HOLLOW. 

In the neighborhood of Shokan, towards the left, extends that magnificent valley, 
Ketchum Hollow, or, as it is called by the farmer, Bushkill. Here we find ourselves at the 
foot of the highest mountains: High Point Mountain 3300 feet high; South Mountain, 
Ilonover Mountain, and Cornell Mountain 3900 feet high ; Wittenberg Mountain, 3824 
feet high; Cross Mountain, Simon's Point, Friday Mountain, and the Blackberry Point. 
All of these mountains are so very steep that it is impossible to ascend them from their 
front. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 




W 



'A 

< 

CO 

< 
Oh 

Eh 
■A 

O 



MOUNT PLEASANT. 

This represents the south-eastern side of Mount Pleasant, taken at Little Shandaken. 
The view shows the lower portion of the valle}', and extends over Esopus Creek. To the 



TEE CAT8KILL MOUNTAINS 



47 




'A 
< 

CO 

< 

O 



left we see the little church, and quite near by, the boarding-house of Mrs. Lamson, 
which is surrounded by shady trees. This house is well situated upon a rising hilly ground, 
so that in the summer it is always cool and pleasant. Little Shandaken possesses the very 



4^- 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAi" \ 




La Dev/ Farm. 



best conveniences. Its roads and pathways are unsurpassed; such as the walk from Little 
Sliandaken up to Cooper Lake, and thence to the Mead House, to the Twin Mountains, 
Echo Lake, and the Overlook Mountain House. Any of these walks can be accomplished 
in one day. Whoever desires to enjoy a splendid view, should go from the La dew Farm, to 
the La dew Peak, which we have described above. As soon as he has arrived at the first 
level piece of ground, he will behold the beautiful valley extending beneath him, at almost 
every step the view changes. The higher he ascends, the more vast is the scene sjDread out 
before him, which he cannot but enthusiastically admire. A beautiful pathAvay equally 
adapted for pedestrians, horse-back riders and coaching parties, follows the Esopus Creek 
as far as the Tremper House. Turning to the left, and crossing the stream, it leads into 
the Woodland Valley about one mile distant. We have already said that this narrow vale 
is the nearest way to Wittenberg. A visit to tliis neighboriiood will never be forgotten. 
At this lower portion of Mount IMeasant, we can distinguish a passage-way for foot-pas- 
sengers, and from there a beautiful view can be had from Little Shandaken, up to the 
Overlook ; a scene as grand as the inspired imagination of tlie artist painter could desire ! 
The other view of Mount Pleasant is on the other hand quite uninteresting. This moun- 
tain closes all entrance into the beautiful valleys. 



HE CAT8KILL MOUNTAINS. 



49 




a 













Mount Cornell4 Elevation 3,920 ft. 



60 THE VAj:- .OirJS^rjiJ^ 



VIEW FROM MOUNT PLEASANT. 



The picture taken from Mount Pleasant, sliows the little Shandaken. We iuive the 
whole valley before us, with a fine upward view towards the Overlook. The two houses 
seen in the midst of the mountains, were formerly called "the Corner," but afterwards, 
''La dew Farm." This farm is owned by a German named Schumacher, and is one of the 
very best summer resorts. Being kept in the German style, it is principally patronized by 
Germans, From the house a pathway leads up to the summit, called at the mountain 
'•'La dew Peak," which can be reached in about one hour and a-lialf. Before the traveler 
has gone one hundred yards, he can already enjoy a beautiful view of the valley extending 
beneath him. We behold High Point immediately in front of us. To the left of High 
Point, we can see the Shawangunk Mountains and Lake Malionk, The valley below La 
dew Peak is little Shandaken and, as represented in the picture, it extends up to the Over- 
look Mountain, The Overlook Mountain House, which seems like a little white spot in 
mid-air, pi-esents indeed, a truly fairy like aspect. From the summit of High Point one 
can obtain an extensive view over all the surrounding country; on the right is seen Cooper 
Lake, behind the mountains Vv^e can distinguish Kingston and Eondout, the Hudson River, 
and her far-famed Highlands, A view from Overlook to High Point includes the whole 
of the beautiful panorama. The Vermont Mountains are visible in all their grandeur. 
One might suppose them painted in the air. I confess that after all the wonderful phe- 
nomena I have witnessed in the Catskills, I am not at all surprised to know that the Dutch 
find the Indians were accustomed to tell the most charming and wonderful stories regard- 
ing their experience in these mountains. At the right, in their full beauty, you can dis- 
tinguish the highest mountains: Mount Cornell, Wittenberg, Cross Slide Mountain, the 
Balsam 'and the Panther Mountains, Here I enjoyed the most beautiful prosi")ecc it was 
ever my good fortune to behold, I was roaming about in this vicinit}^, there had been a 
terrible snowstorm in the moui^tains. The sunlight breaking forth caused the clouds to 
assume a dark grey color as they hung in fragments from the heavens. The change in 
the illumination produces most wonderful effects: at one side the clouds fly past like 
ghostly figures, while on the other, they appear brightly illuminated. Looking backwards, 
towards Chichester, we behold a succession of finely formed mountains, extending, ap- 
parently, to Stony Clove, Greene County. La dew Peak, with its magnificent scenery, has 
hitherto been almost entirely unknown; but lovers of nature could scarcely find brighter 
and more interesting views, and more peaceful surroundings, than are here enjoyed. 

ENTRANCE TO STONY CLOVE. 

This is at Phoenicia, Ulster County, and passes the Tremper House and the Chi- 
chester Chair Factory. The pathway leading into it is well preserved. The valley has a 
very romantic aspect, and the nearer we approach Stony Clove, it grows steeper and 
assumes a wilder character. At the beginning of the entrance the view is extremely 
i)icturesque. The entrance, being very narrow, is difiicult to ])a.ss, and reminds one of 
the Pass of Thermo})yhe, On the left, the lofty mountains rise like a wall. It is a fearful 
and wonderful sight to sec those monstrous and gigantic rocks towering at a height almost 
beyond the reach of the human eye ! They rcsemlde the Palisades of the Hudson. In 
the depth, one can see a remarkable foliage, which, winding through the clefts in \A\v 
rock.^, at last attains a great height, ^fhc trees are of the wildest growth, their trunks 



THE CATSKILL 310 UNI' A INS. 



51 




Entrance to Stony Ci.ovrc fko.m Ulster Co. 



THE CATISKILL MOUNTAINS. 




Mot'NT SiiKHiDAN, WITH vii;\v OK SiiANDAKKN Valley. Elcvatioa 2,300 ft. 

1)eing covered with green moss and parasites. It is indeed, beyond linman power to give 
an adequate description of the wilderness of the surrounding country. 

The only ]-»ossible way of ascending the mountain is by the pathway on the right 
side of it. The clefts in the rocks are unfathomable. Even the sun's rays cannot 
penetrate to their bottom ; and thus we can, even in the midst of summer, find 
ice and snow in their depths. Foxes, eagles and owls hide in them, and, consequently, 
this is a favorite place for hunters. A railroad will soon pass through here, and thus before 
long, this great emblem of civilization will have encroached on this hitherto wild, romantic 
region. The railway will go from Pluenicia, through Stony Clove to Hunter. Undoubt- 
edly it will secure the most excellent advantages to the summer resorts of Greene County. 
It is evident that as soon as the iron steam-horse gallops through this country, it will 
lose all value as a hunting-ground. 

Approaching Greene County, the aspects of the mountains change ; they become more 
aln-upt and assume the name of Stony Mountains. The other mountains, to the left, 
break off suddenly, and only the rear jjortion connects with Hunter ]\rountain. At this 
point they reach an elevation of about 4,054 feet. The footpath turns from the right to 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 




Mount SHiCiuDAN, witu View of Woodland Valley. 

left, as before mentioned above, in leaving Ulster County, and tlie whole apj^earance of 
the mountains change. The valleys themselves being somewhat elevated, the mountains 
appear quite low, though, in reality, they average as high as the others. The way to the 
right leads to Tannersville ; and, from here, Cauterskill Clove and the Catskill Mountain 
House can be easily reached. 

The road to the left leads to the well known Hunter, Greene County ; from Hunter to 
Lexington, and from this latter place, through a beautiful vale, to Westkill. 

These roads through Tannersville, Stony Clove and Phoenicia Station on the one 
side, and through Hunter, Lexington, Westkill, the Notch and Shandaken Station on the 
other side, are the passes through these mountains, from Ulster and Greene Counties. 



MOUNT SHERIDAN. 

Mount Sheridan has an elevation of 2,300 feet, and is twenty-eight miles from Ron- 
dout. It can be most easily ascended at a point opposite O'Neil's boarding-house. An 
excellent view of Shandaken Valley can be obtained from its summit. 



54 THE CATSKILL 3I0UNTAINS. 



Shandaken, wliich is situated in a deep valley, presents a wild and romantic aspect. 
It is a small village, whose principle industry consists in a chair factory and a saw-mill. 
It contains a hotel for summer boarders, known as Lamment's Hotel. 

The village lies in the centre of the valley : the most romantic part of the Catskills. 
The walks here are beautiful beyond description. To the right of the hotel we witness 
the remarkable change in tlie appearance of the mountains before alluded to. Pleasant 
l^atlis traverse the whole valley. 

Continuing along the main road, we pass through Deep Notch, wliich is about seven 
miles distant from Deo Brothers' summer resort, at Westkill. From the eastern side of 
Mount Sheridan, (as represented m the other picture), we can obtain a direct view of the 
Woodland Valley. The scenery in this vale is highly romantic. In the midst of it we be- 
hold Mount "Wittenberg. Viewed from the front, the mountain appears to have a gable, 
and, as upon the wall of a fortress, the gable winds itself upwards to the highest point of 
the mountain, the crest of which appears in the form of a Liberty cap. Viewed from 
any side, it presents a very remarkable and interesting appearance. Towards the right 
we see the broad backs of Mount Wittenberg, Cross Mountain, Cornell Mountain and 
Slide Mountain, all in the same line, and shutting in the valley. All the other mountains 
are easily reached from here, and ascended without any trouble, with the exception of Slide 
]\Iountain, to ascend which, from this side, would be a difficult task. The road to it is 
to be found at the Big Indian. From this place Slide Mountain appears to be quite a 
distance off, though in reality it is not far. In front and to the right are the Panther 
and Balsam Mountains. 

TO THE SLIDE MOUNTAIN. 

The easiest and only route by which to reach this is Big Indian Valley. The traveler 
can ride in a wagon from Big Indian Station almost to tlie highest i)oint of the moun- 
tain, where one Mr. Dutchcr, a farmer, is the guide in this region. The distance from 
the station to the guide's dwelling is about seven miles, and from here about five miles. 
This is the highest of all these mountains, though it by no means appears to be so, since 
it is very long, and connects with the others in the rear. The si)ectacle here of the rising 
;ind setting of the sun is grand. It is beyond the power of words to describe it. From 
the summit of this mountain, the eye has command of all the country for miles around, 
and the view seems unlimited. In truth, the picture is one that beggars description. 

Passing over the ridge of the mountain, we reach Deep Notch, the source of the Never- 
sink. The surrounding, being a total wilderness, possesses a romantic beauty. The 
mystic lore and legends of the Dutcli, and of the Indians, seem to have constant inspira- 
tion from this locality ; and poetry had ever a much congenial subject in the splendor 
of the home of the Neversink. 

The name, Slide Monnlain, is due to the fact that the entire upper portion of 
the mountain looks as though it had did downward into tlie valley. In viewing this 
mountain, we find the most unmistakable traces of the wanton devastation com- 
mitted here by the inhabitants. During the last sixty years, the bark of the needle- 
like foliage in this vicinity has been unscrupulously devastated ; and to-day, probably, not 
a single fine fir-tree can be found, where once the country abounded in countless numbers 
of them. Every nook and corner of this neighborhood was filled with tanneries ; and, 
not satisfied with this method of ruining the trees, the farmers began a warfare against 
them by burning them out. They had only intended to burn down a few acres, but, be- 
in'-- powerless to control tlie llunios, whole miles of the forest Vv'eve leveled to the ground, 



THE CAT8KILL 3I0UNTAINS. 



55 



^«?'j 



■i'l?:i-:..... 







Mt. Wit 



tenj;kk(j. Elevation 3,824 ft. 



56 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAJNS. 












Slide Mountain in Winteu. Elevation 4,230 ft. 



thus depriving the country of its iiaturtil wealth. They did not K.now that in doing so 
they were robbing themselves, and ruining, with brute force, their own resources. How 
strange that now nothing but stone-quari'ies flourish where once healthy vegetation had a 
home ! Now there is a drouth there ; wells and springs have dried up, and any one who 
has visited that region within tlie last few years, will bear witness to the many ineffectual 



THE CATSKILL MOVNfAlNS. 



51 




WiJSTKU IN Big Ijmdian Valley. 



attemjits to restore the vegetation of the hind. Usually, grass-seed is sowed first, so as to 
make the soil more susceptible to other seed, but all to no jmrposc ; the first heavy storm 
washes the earth away, and nothing but the naked stones remain. Xature had in vain 
covered the mountain with foliage. 

Whoever wantonl}^ destroys the forest, commits an unpardonable crime ! 

The science of forestry was unknown to America ; otherwise, the condition of tlie 
country at the present day would be far different. 

Is this always to be so ? 

What will become of the American forests, if a change for the better is not made at 
an early day ? 



58 



THE CATSKILL 3WUNTAINS. 




THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



59 



Delaware County. 




THE OLD TOLL-GATE. 

This picture shows the railway as making wonderful turnings downwards through 
the mountains until Griffin's Corner is reached. From the distance, the mountains of 
Delaware County are visible in their zig-zag formed line, from which they are recogniza- 
ble. The point whence tlie picture is taken, is about half of a mile south-easterly from 
the summit, and whence a good prospect through the valley can be obtained. There is a 
roadway to Griffin's Corner ; the railway is constantly high above it, towards the left. 
On the same pathway we meet an ancient toll-gate whicli must be of great interest to a 
tourist. It may be of interest to them, also, to know that the good people in the little 
toll-gate house will willingly supply them with some excellent milk. To me, and to my 
daughter, this old toll-gate will remain a never to be forgotten place. While sitting above 
the house, taking sketches from Nature, a monstrous big bull seemed to address us in his 
powerful, thunder-like basso voice. Frightened from our quiet labor, we hastily rose and 
hurried to get out of reach of this unwelcome intruder. My horse then became unruly 
and we saw, to our horror, how the bull was just about to make an attempt to break over 
the fence. It was with the utmost difficulty that we made headway on the bellowing 
fellow, and reached the house, where we enjoyed the luxury of several glasses of excellent 
milk, and thus slowly recovered from our fright. 
















■m 



Coming Doavn Ghifkin's Counkk. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



61 



"^--^^.. 



•T /■.', I, i 





Dklawaue County as Viewed fuom Summit. 



COMING DOWN TO GRIFFIN'S CORNER, 

The picture sliows the railway on the lieights, making a turn around the mountain 
and slowly descending into the valley, before Griffin's Corner is reached. The rear is 
the Talley viewed from the other hill, towards the height, whence a pathway leads up in 
the opposite direction to a farm-house, kept by one Hatfield, who always shelters a large 
number of boarders. It lies at the end point of the valley, though pretty high up ; and 
thus an excellent view can be had from there of the high mountains of Greene County. 

THE MOUNTAINS OF GRAND GORGE. 



As soon as these mountains come into view, the eye is riveted by their remarkable ap- 
pearance. The nearer we approach them the narrower the ravine becomes. This is tlie 
most remarkable and interesting place in Delaware County. The mountain to the left is 
called Bald Mountain, and the one to the right is known as Irish Mountain. Cobble 
]\[ountain, which is in the center, is grand and sublime beyond description. It apj^ears to 
be constructed in layers of mighty rocks. The pass between tlie two mountains is so ex- 
tremely narrow that there is scarcely enough room for the railway cars since the wagon 



62 



THE CATS KILL MOUNTAINS. 



7^^^^M^?r-^!^yj^^S^^'^'^'isS^'fi^:^^:=pi:^ 







MONTGOiVIERY HOLLOW. 

(>(■(■ IJcjxhiir}-, page 23.) 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS 




&KAND GUKGE 



road and creek also run side by side here. The East Branch Delaware takes its source 
from this point. Just at the outlet of this gorge you reach the railway station. The 
railroad now turns to the left, and is followed for quite a distance by the layers of rocks 
before mentioned. About 17 miles further on, it takes a north-eastern course, and the foot- 
path runs directly from the station into Moresville. The road to tlie left leads to Stam- 
ford. There are also the cross-roads to Gilboa, Windham, Prattsville, Ashland, and to 
Lexington, in Greene County. 



64 



TEE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 




THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



Go 



Greene County. 







Kip Van Winkle's House. 



66 THE CATSKILL JWUNTAINS. 



CAUTERSKILL CLOVE. 

A pretty road leads from the plain to the Clove. At certain points we notice rocks, 
which are formed in layers, and are thickly covered with a beautiful foliage. The min- 
gling of tlie gray color of the rock with the rich green of the foliage and moss, pro- 
duces a very pretty effect. Further on, a charming rustic bridge takes us over the Kaater- 
skill Creek. To the left a peculiarly shaped rock is seen. It is perfectly bare and smooth, 
rising like a tower jdaced there by human hands. On the other side, it it almost con- 
cealed with rich and verdant foliage. This mass of rocks extends for quite a distance, 
until interrupted by mighty ravines, which sometimes rcacli a depth of 1500 feet. As 
can be imagined, the whole scene is exceedingly romantic. 



RIP VAN WINKLE'S HOUSE. 

We are now in the neighborhood of Rip Van Winkle's Glen ; so named by Washington 
Irving. It is not at all to be wondered at, that this great genius drew his poetical inspira- 
tion from this spot, for it abounds in such wild, romantic beauty as would naturally excite 
such susceptible minds as that of the author of ''Rip Van Winkle," and cause his genius to 
soar on the wings of poetical imagination ! We know it to be unnecessary to repeat here 
the charming story of Rip's sleep. A great American comedian, one of the finest of the 
age, Joseph Jefferson, has made this delightful legend familiar to the whole English 
speaking Avorld. 

A clear, sparkling little rivulet runs in merry glee through the valley, and on its way 
passes a broad, flat rock. On the top of this rock stands an old weather-beaten hut, called 
"Rip ^'an Winkle's House." Opposite to it stands an old fashioned farm-house. The 
road leads from here upwards to North Mountain, and suddenly turning a corner, we be- 
hold the Mountain House upon a mighty rock before us, which affords a most imposing 
view. 

THE CATSKILL MOUNTAIN HOUSE. 

The well known Catskill Mountain House is now fifty-eight years old, for it Avas estab- 
lished in the year 1824. It is about twelve miles west of the village of Catskill, and nearly 
2,700 feet above the level of the sea. Tliis venerable summer resort is built upon a large, 
projecting platform. For fifty-eight years it has withstood the storms aiul inclemency of 
the weather, almost as proof against the asgaults of time as the mountain itself, ui)on 
which it stands. The hotel is charmingly situated. It stands in the very heart of that 
neighl)orh()od which is the scene of the greater part of the Dutch and Indian legends. We 
mention only two names : that of Rip Van Winkle, and of our great artist, Tli. Cole, who 
had lived there. Were we to repeat the names of all the celebrities in art and literature, 
and of the distinguished foreigners, wlio have stopped at this hotel, we should be obliged 
to enlarge tliis book much beyond tlie scope we intend it should embrace. To relate all 
the anecdotes of this place would fill volumes. 

The surrounding country is very charming ; it abounds in pathways, leading in every 
direction. Especially are the well known water-falls in this vicinity a source of pleasure 
and attraction. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



67 



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vj^3>:j^> 




The distance from tlie Catskill Moun- 
,tain House to TanncrsTillc is about six 
miles. This latter place has a large num- 
ber of boarding-houses. 

The distance from Tanncrsville to Hunter is about four miles. 



SUNSET ROCK. 

Looking from here upwards, the country all around seems to have a tablet forin. 
We are in a fair distance from the mountain-chain of the Hunter Mountain and its neigh- 
bors, and, through this distance, the mountains seem to be clad in a bluish gauze, or haze. 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



- -fi:'. 




I Below, in the valley, 
wo behold the waters 
of Haines' Fall wind- 
^ ing along ; but the 
Slimmer often dries it into emptiness. The out- 
washed and outwhetted stones and the big trunks of 
trees seen around — of the latter of which it is but 
plainly visible that the storm or the rusli of the 
wa^er of the Falls has torn them from the ground — bear witness of tlu' occasional ])t)wer 
of this waterfall, and of the great strength of tlie storms raging at times in these parts. 
Casting a glance over the i)lain, all around appears in l)right green colors. The foliiige 
of the neighborhood is richest in firs and l)utternut-trees. Upward to the height, a lovely 
moss covers the ground. As seen from the picture, there is an enormous gray rock in 
the front, in the clefts of which traces of a weather-beaten, needle-like foliage arc to be 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



69 




South and North 
Lakes. 



Tliis picture is sketched from tlie North Mouutaiu, from 
which we have a fine view of the Nortli uiul South Lakes to 
the Ihulsou Valley. Tliese two lakes have an elevation of 
about 2, GOO feet, and are a half-mile from the Catskill ]\Ioun- 
taiu House. 



fottncl. Large portions of the rocky mass are covered witli mos.^, and the cliaiiges of the 
colors produce charming effects. 



SOUTH LAKE. 

In the tahle-formed highland, lying between the Sontli and the North Mountains, 
two lakes can be found. The larger one is the South Tiake, lying hidden amidst lux- 
uriant forests. The water of the sea is exuberantly overgrown with bog and marsh plants, 
and on hot summer days one can often see the water-serpent sunning itself on tlie broad 



7(? THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



leaves of the plants. The most fabuloiis stories are told of this i)lacc, which is but natural, 
inasmuch as the country around was full of unpleasant insects and the sea full of serpents. 
Man and beast kept aloof from the place, and at times even the brave Indian, who 
is accustomed to face and to brave all danger, looked with suspicion upon and approch- 
ed witli fear this place. But since this neighborhood has been so much frequented by 
summer boarders, and a groat part of the old forest destroyed, all its former wilderness 
has disappeared. A small streamlet ilowing from this lake forms the Kaaterskill 
Fall, and directly westward along the mountains it runs until it reaches the nearest 
end of a precipitated, rocky mass. Beneath this rock it forms a small pond where the 
waters gather again, and there it falls with mighty velocity to a depth of 185 ft. Thence 
from cave to cave it runs until at last amid roars and foaming it falls into the vale below 
and Avinds it^ way through the clove towards and into the Hudson. But it is finally the 
fall looked upon and viewed from a standpoint; at the second grade the most magnificent 
sight imaginable iu all nature presents itself. Not only Hunter Mountain with her 
neighbors in view, but the Fall itself presents the peculiar appearance of having its falling 
water swayed l)y the air, thus causing the dewy drops to be carried far, very far away all 
around into the iieighboring country, just as the winds may blow. The rays of the sun in 
passing through these dewy drops floating in the air produces a display and a blending of 
colors more effective and superior in beauty than a rainbow's heavenly splendor. 



HUNTER. 

Hunter is situated in a wide valley. One of the remarkable views connected with it, is 
that of Stony Clove, three miles distant. The roads here, which run in every direction, are 
excellent. 

Hunter Mountain is the highest in Greene County, being somewhat over 4000 ft. high. 
Colonel Cliair Mountain is over 1500 feet high above the village. 

Hunter is furnished with all the latest facilities and improvements of a modern village, 
viz : a telegraph office, stage line, stores, churches and schools. Thus it is lai- from being 
a wilderness. The distance from Hunter to Lexington is nine miles, and from the latter 
place to Westkill it is three miles. 

PANORAMA VIEWED FROM BLACK DOME NEAR TANNERSVILLE. 

Black Dome is a little over 4000 feet in heiglit. From hero ono can see tiio whole 
succession of all the high mountains, whose crests project above the mist ami fog. This 
l)icture corresponds to the description found in the Indian legends. They called this chain 
of mountains "Tlio mountains in the sky." The crests of these mountains l)eing illumina- 
ted by the bright rays of the sun, whilst mist and fog enshroud them below, gives them a 
very ghostly appearance. 

Owing to the movement of the fog produced by the sun's rays endeavoring to penetrate 
it, the crests of the mountains appear to sway in mid-air. 

It Avas in tliis ])art of the country that Thomas Colo lived ; it was from liei-o tliat this 
truly great artist drew the inspiration of his masterpiece "The Voyages of Life," which 
he represented in four beautiful ])aintings. 



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71 






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72 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 




WlOSTKIM-— Dku IJuoTllKliS' IIOTIU.. 



THE CAT8KILL MOUNTAINS. 



73 



DEEP NOTCH FROM WESTKILL TO SHANDAKEN. 

This is a romantic and picturesque ravine, wiiich cuts through these high mountains 
and leads from Greene to Ulster County. It is very appropriately called " Deep Notch." 
A beautiful valley extends from Lexington to Westkill. The pathway represented in our 
picture, leads directly to the hotel of Messrs. Deo Brothers. This is a very popular house 
for summer boarders ; situated, as it is, at the foot of the mountain, it resembles a European 
scene. But a few steps from the hotel, and we arc in the very midst of the Deep Notch. 
The nearer we approach Ulster County, the more romantic becomes the deep, narrow pass. 
This ravine bears a striking similarity to that at Stony Clove, which is even wilder in its 
beauty than Deep Notch. 

The distance from the hotel of Messrs. Deo Brothers at Westkill to the Lamment's Hotel 
at Shandaken, is about seven miles. A mail-coach runs daily between these two places 
and also from Westkill to Lexington, from here to Hunter. From Hunter you can go 
through the beautiful Stony Clove, joining at Phoenicia, Ulster County. Then again, you 
can go from Hunter to Tannersville through the beautiful Cauterskill Clove to Catskill 
Village, Greene County. All these places can be reached back and forth by mail-coach 
daily, which connect with the Ulster and Delaware liail Road. 



fff«-*r-« y^5^_ 




FARMING IN GREENE COUNTY. 



CONCLUSION, 



That portion of the Catskills included in the tliree counties, Ulster, Greene and Dela- 
ware, partakes so largely of the beautiful, the grand and the magnificent, that not even the 
most picturesque scenes of Switzerland can approach them in their proud beauty ! To 
gain a thorough view of all the splendors of these mountains, one must spend at least 
five summers witliin tlieir large expanse, going every year somewhere else within their 
boundaries ; every year will then reveal something new, something apparently still more 
beautiful than all that had j^reviously been admired. 

The most valuable advice one can take Avith him is not to remain cooped up in his 
boarding-house all day. To thoroughly enjoy the season in the Catskills, the visitor must 
make up his mind to roam about, either alone, or in company with others, for parties of 
tourists are easily made \\\). He should wander in every direction, towards every quarter, 
up hill and down hill, now to find the source of some rivulet, to-morrow to gaze at the 
gigantic trees of the forest, at another time to discover a mocking-bird's nest ; it should 
bo his constant endeavor to enjoy sill the beauties that l^ature has so generously spread 
before him ! This gives strength and vigor to mind and body, and surely a trip to the 
Catskills is undertaken with no other purpose, than that of enlivening the body, heart 
and soul ! 

Considering how near to this great metropolis these mountains are, one would almost 
be led to imagine that Nature intentionally put them there for our benefit. 

Thousands of children of our poorer classes, who suffer and die in the scorching heat 
of our summers, Avould be saved if they could but escape from the filth and disease of 
tlie hot city, into tlie balmy, fresh air of the Catskills. 

Why are there not a few more Peter Coopers in the city of New York ? Why do not 
the noble philanthropists of this great city (and no other city can boast of so many 
public-spirited men as ours) turn tlieir attention to the practical branches of Charity 
and Benevolence ? 

Why does not some millionaire secure to the suffering children, the enjoyments of 
health and life ? If he did so, he would immortalize himself, and acquire a name that 
would outlive all the obelisks I 

There arc many who possess the means and can well afford to spend a summer in the 
Catskills, but they arc needlessly extravagant. It is not Jiecessary that a man should be 
enormously rich to take his family up there. There are numerous hotels, boarding and 
farm-houses to be found in the vicinity, and thus it is an easy matter to secure a house 
adapted to one's pecuniaiy means. 

All that is necessary, is to address a letter to any of the houses herein mentioned, and 
to ask for the conditions under which they will board you and your family, etc., etc. 
For this purpose I have prepared this illustrated work in a manner calculated to make it 
a safe guide on which any one can implicitly rely. 



76 CONCL USION. 



A mind juid eye susceptible to Llie beauties of Nature will readily appreciate Ibc love 
and entliusiasm with which I have endeavored to describe the splendor of the Catskill 
mountains, which seems to grow greater every day. Such minds and such eyes will bear 
witness to the truthfulness and fidelity of my descriptions. 

And even those who are not so aesthetic in their tastes, but prefer the busy life of the 
town, and the pleasures of the cit}^ even these I say, will gladly embrace an opportunity 
to rejniir to these Catskill Mountains, and to enjoy, amidst joyous shouts and cheerful 
songs, the recreation which no city can afford ! 

True it is, that in these mountains one's pleasures must necessarily be of a different 
nature than those enjoyed in the city, but they are by no means less entertaining. 

Tiie journey from New York to the Catskills, right into the midst of the mountains, 
costs but very little, the small sum of 11.50, including the trip on the beantifnl Hudson. 
You can take the Albany day-boat for liondout, or a boat that leaves Pier 34, N. E., 
daily, at 4 p. m., and on Saturdays at 1 o'clock, for llondout; then take Ulster & Dela- 
ware Railroad for any of the Stations. If you take the Hudson Eiver Railroad to Rhine- 
beck, you can'cross to Rondout by means of the ferry. 

I beg leave to call the attention of everybody, especially of those living in large cities, 
to the vast superiority of the balmy mountain air, over the city's foul odors, and to the 
beneficial effect this change lias upon the constitution. This change of air is of unutter- 
able advantage to those who have for a long time previous breathed the salt air of the 
sea and the dust of the cities. 

Frenchmen say that champagne lies in the air, and physicians, appreciating this, 
frequently send their patients into the mountainous country, thus acknowledging Nature 
as more jiotent in her influence than all the resources of their art. 

How charming is the life in the mountains ! Away up on the summit of some lofty 
peak, how securely, how sweetly we sleep ! No fear that the long-legged musicians from 
the Jersey Coast will ring their battle-songs into your ears, and dance their warwhoop 
before your eyes. No : the mosquito — that pest of the city and of the sea-shore, be it 
however fashionable — is unknown in the mountains. 

Fever and ague are exiled from the Catskills by the fresh, sweet air of the mountains. 
Every one who is sickly, fatigued and worn out, becomes imbued with new life, strength 
and vigor, with elasticity of mind and freshness of heart. 

I trust that the public will give this illustrated work the attention whicli it deserves. 
The author will show his gratitude by endeavoring to discover every year new fruits cf 
interest to which he may turn the attention of his generous jjatrons. 



CONCLUSION. 




New York's Philanthropist — Peter Cck)Per. 



7S DIRECTORY. 



I 



""k: 






OF RESPONSIBLE 



Hotels and Boarding-Houses, 



ULSTER COUNTY. 

Rundoui. — Eiigle Hotel. 

West Hurley. — Overlook Mountain House. 

Browii's Station. — A few yards from the Station, Mr. Brown has a new and elegant 
Boarding-house. Every degree of comfort, and terms very reasonable. From Brown's 
Station to Mr. Lasher's is a very nice trip over Mount Hope, where you can enjoy all the 
views around. Lasher's Boarding-house lays right on the hill, and is always cool and shady. 
It is about a y^-vaWa down to AVinchell's Fall, where there is a nice creek for bathing and 
boating. The price for boarding is very reasonable. 

West Shokan. — Mr. Weichner has a nice farm and boarding-houfe. This house is 
situated on the foot of all the principal mountains. Is of great interest to tourist?. 
Plenty of trout fishing in the neighborhood. Price for board very reasonable. 

Mount Pleasant. — The beautiful boarding-house by Mr. Schumacher. He is the pro- 
l)rietor of La Dew Farm. His two houses are used for summer boarders, and he keeps them 
elegant and in good German style. On his farm is La Dew Peak. To make a trip there 
is to see the nicest views of the whole mountains. There you can enjoy a scene that will 
never be forgotten. 

ritmnicia Station. — Tremper House. 
Shandaken. — Lament's Hotel. 

Pine Hill Hold. — At Pine Hill there is always a good chance to rent houses for 
summer boarders. Grand hotel on the summit. 



DIRECTORY. 



DELAWARE COUNTY. 

GriffiiiH Conicr.—ll\\QYG are several boarding-houses, but there is only Mr. Biihlerthat 
I can recommend. He gives good board and has his house always in nice order with good 
company. A delightful summer resort and the nicest house in the whole village. His 
price for boarding is very reasonable. 

Grand Gurge. — There is a hotel for summer boarders. 

Jioxbu ry.^— There are several summer resorts. 

Stamford is a large place for summer guests, and is the end of the Ulster and Dela- 
ware Kailroad. 

GREENE COUNTY. 

The old Mountain House. 

Tlie New Cauterskill House, 

Tlie Laurel House, directly on the beautiful Kaaterskill Fall. 

For these houses we can give the best recommendation. Terms very reason<iblc. 

The next house is Haine's & Haine's Fall. 

I'anncrsville is largely patronized as a summer resort. 

The next is the beautiful villngc of Hunter. There is the "Hunter" hotel opposite 
Colonel Chair Mountain. The proprietor, M. C. Van Pelt, has lately been under a great 
expense, making new improvements. There is a telegraph office, which connects with all 
the different lines of the United States. Stages to all directions connect with all train.'v 
]\[r. Van Pelt keeps a first class table, and charges very liberal rates. This is a healthy 
and delightful locality. 

Lexington. — Several summer resorts. 

Dec}) Notch, Wcsthill. — The beautiful Westkill is a hotel owned by Deo Bros. Loca- 
lity splendid, and is situated on the foot of the Notch, where ice can l)e found the whole 
year. The proprietor keeps a good table and the price is very reasonable. 



so 



A D \ 'ER TISEMENTS. 



H. SCHILE, 

1-^ <£z IG IDiTTisiorL Street, HSTeTTsr "STor]^. 



All I'inds itf Sltoio Cardx. 



Views of BnihUnris a Spccialf//. 



The Great Brewers and the Best Beer in the City of ITew York. 



-*---♦"-•- 



JACOB HOFFMANN, 

Ovicntdl Brcirerii. 

East 55th Street. 



BERNHEIMER & SCHMIDT, 

Lion Brewery, 

1 1 Oth Street. 



GEORGE EHRET, 

Brewery, 
East 92nd Street. 

JACOB AHLES, 

Brewery, 
East 54-th Street. 



THE BEST BEER IN STATEN ISLAND. 



GEORGE BECHTEL, 

Bn trerii, 

Stajrleton. 



MONROE ECHSTEIN, 

Jlrewery. 

FoLir Corners. 



THE BEST BEER IN LONG ISLAND. 



OTTO HUBER, 

Brewery, 

Brooklyn, E. D. 



JOSEPH FALLERT, 

Brewery. 

60-66 Meserole St. 



HENRY KIEFER, 

Brewery, 

Brooklyn, E. D. 

S. LIEBMANN'S SONS, 
JJrewery. 
Forrest St., Brooklyn. 



SEITZ & SON, 

lliewcry, 

Brooklyn, E. D. 



JOHN WELZ, 

Brewery, 

Ridgewood, L. 





ROMANTISCfl 



hP 



UND 



INTERESSAN 
PLAETZE 



1 Jj 



IN DEN 



Ulster, 



: Delaware 



UND 



Greene, 



i— S^.^^zi=t":*=^J^^ 



HEEAT SfTFf.FBEN VON 

H. SCHILE, 

Nos. 14 & 16 DIVISION STREET, NEW YORK. 

1881. 



'/; 



>tr 



VORWORT. 



-xsi^'io;- 



Von alien Erlioliingsorten giebt es kaiim prachtigere, als die in den Catskill 
Mountains. Welch' einen Genuss bietet uns diese schone, erhabene Gebirgs- 
gegend ! So nalie an der Weltstadt New York eine soldi' reine, siisse Bergluft — 
eine walire Wolilthat fiir diejenigen, welche immer in der Salzlnft leben. In 
dieser Bezieliung sind die Catskill Mountains nicht zu iibertreflfen, und mit Reclit 
wird die Gegend die " amerikanisclie Scbweiz" genannt. 

Wie sclion hat es die Natur bedacht, so nahe am Meerestrande und so nahe 
der Metropole dieser neuen Welt eine kleine Schweiz zu schaffen. Die Gotter 
raussten es bestimmt haben, dass liier, so nahe an den unschatzbaren Catskill 
Mountains audi einst die grosste Stadt der Welt bestehen wird. So sind datlurdi 
fiir die Grossstadter die Catskill Mountains in der Sommersaison eine grosse 
Nothwendigkeit, nicht uui* des Genusses, sondern auch der Erholung und Ge- 
sundheit wegen, welche man gerne erkaufen mochte, wenn es oft nur moglich 
ware. Wie wohlthuend ist es fiir den Stadter, weiin er oft nach einem langen, 
rauhen Winter dort im Sommer in der wilden Romantik im schonen Thai und an 
der siissen Quelle sich labt. Links und rechts die steilen, liohen Berge kaum 
dem Aug' erreichbar — da muss man sich fragen: Wer hat dich so hoch da droben 
gebaut? Da presst es uns aus der Brust : Wir loben Gott, den Meister. Welch' 
eine erhabene Idee von der unendlichen Macht des grossen Architekten, die Ur- 
saclie aller Ursachen, der Schopfer aller Schopfungen ! 

Icli gebe daher dem Publikum einen zuverlassigen Fiihrer und iiberliefere 
das Werk ganz getreu wie ich es selbst gesehen habe. Icli habe die Bilder nach 
der Natur selbst aufgenommen. Es ist kein Bilderbuch, das Bilder nur beniitzt, 
gleichviel ob sie zu dem Werke passten oder nicht. Nein, es ist rein sachlidi 
dargestellt, wie es die Natur bietet. 

Ich habe die Catskills selbst bereist, gesehen, bescbrieben und selbst gezeich- 
net, schildere also aus eigener Anschauung. Die Gegend ist so billig erreichbar ; 
fiir $1.50 gelangt man mitten in die Catskill Mountains und dabei hat man 
noch die Gelegenheit den hiibschen Hudson zu bewundern. Viele haben die 
Mittel, docli nur Wenigen ist es bekannt, und wo man auch dort hingeht, ist es 
interessant. 



Das Panorama der Catskill Mountains 

vom Hudson aus g'esehen. 

Es wird so viel von dem lierrlichen Hudson Strom und seinem Hoclilande ge- 
sprochen, dabei aber gewolmlich der wundervollen Catskill Berge niclit gedacht. Nach 
den grossartigen Eindriicken beini Passiren der Hoclilande kann man sich eine kleine 
Erliolung gonnen, well von Newburg ab das Ufer nur liiigelformig ist. Dadurcli wird 
aber gewolmlicli vergessen, dass man bald die grossartigen Catskill Berge passirt. Wer 
nur vor bat, den Hudson zu bereisen, sollte nicht vers'amnen, bevor er Rondout erreiclit, 
den lioclisten Punkt des Bootes zu besteigen und einen Blick auf die herrliclien Catskills 
zu Averfen. 

Das Scliauspiel der Natur kann man liier in seiner ganzen Grosse beobachten. Das 
Merkwiirdigste ist, dass, so oft man audi diese grossartigen Panoramen beobaclitet, nie- 
mals dasselbe Bild wieder vor die Augen tritt. Die Form der Gebirge ist selbstver- 
standlich dieselbe, aber stets ist der erste Eindruck unvergesslich. 

Am westliclien Ufer des Hudson sieht man ein scbones liiigelformiges Land unter- 
brochen niit Gebiiscli bewaclisen, auf eine Entfernung von zwei bis drei Stunden bis 
zum Fuss der hohen Berge. Wenn man in der Riclitung nach Green County dariiber 
binschaut, glaubt man die Hixgel rollen fort und fort, wie die Wellen des Meeres, bis 
das Auge durcb die plotzlich liocli aufsteigenden Berge unterbrocben wird, welclie bis 
auf die bocbsten, oft von den AVolkeu umsclileierten S^Ditzen mit Wald bewacbsen sind. 

Da siebt man deutlicb die schonen Berge ofter in verscbiedenen Farbeu, aber 
meistens erscbeinen sie blau. An der recbten Seite siebt man den Black Head dann in 
gleicber Eicbtung North Mt., South Mt., Bound Top ; High Peak iiberragt alle. 
Zwischen diesen letzt genannten Bergen bemerkt man eine tiefe, dunkle Stelle ; dieser 
Schatten ist Cauterskill Clove, wo der wohlbekannte Canterskill sich Balm briclit und sich 
dann durch das hiigelformige Land bis in den Hudson schlangelt. An des South Mt. 
nordlichen Nachbarn bemerkt man einen kleinen weissen Fleckeu wie einen Feentempel 
am Berg hiingend, als ware es von den Gottern dort bin bestimmt, iim alle Herrlich- 
keiten von dort oben aus zu iiberschauen ; es ist das Mountain Haus ; es glitzert so 
schon im Sonnenlicht, als woUte es dem Reisenden freundlich zu blicken. 

Dort fand das grosste Schauspiel, das ich jemals gesehen babe, statt ; es war ein Ge- 
witter in den Bei-gen. Verschiedene dunkle Wolkenmassen drangen sich zusammen wie 
Felsenblocke mit magischer Beleuchtung. Aber an den Gipfeln der Berge schiessen die 
Wolken blitzschnell in die Hohe und machen einen solchen Eindruck, als wollten sich 
die Elemente gegenseitig in den Kampf stiirzen. 

Ein anderes mal erschienen die Berge wie eingeschlummert und liessen sich von 
der Sonne erw'armen und beleachten. Durch klares Sonnenlicht hebt sich die Form 
und Couture der Berge so devitlich ab, dass man sie sehr leicht zeichnen kann. Die 
Hotels hoch oben schauen so freundlich und einladend heriiber, dass man sich magne- 
tisch hingezogen fiiblt. 

Ein andermal erscheint das Panorama so, wie es die Indianer nannten, die 
"Mountains in the Sky." Sie sind in Nebel eingehiillt und bloss die Sj^itzen der Berge 
ragen liervor und erscbeinen, als wiirden sie von Gespensteru und Feen umtanzt. 



THE GAT SKILL MOUNTAINS. 



Wer Sinn fiir Naturmerkwiirdigkeiten besitzt unci Gelegenbeit hat zu beobachten, 
was icb bier gescbildert, wird sicb sebr leicbt eiuen Begriff machen konnen, dass die 
Natur dort selbst die Sagen und Legenden der Indianer bervorgerufen bat, denu es 
ist uubescln-eibUcb welcbe Gestalten und Variationen in den Bergen durcb Nebel nnd 
Beleucbtung bervorgebracbt werden. Die Catskills wurden von den HoUandern Kaats- 
bergs und von den Indianern Onit-aras genannt. Die Catskills sind voller Sagen und 
Legenden, von denen icb einige andeuten will. Es war eine Zeit, da des rotben Mannes 
Kinder dabinstarben und man glaubte, dass ein grosses Ungetbiim vom Salzsee berkam 
und die Kinder todte. Der grosse Geist babe einer alten indianiscben Frau Gewalt ver- 
lieben, iiber sie gut oder bose zu berrscben. Sie sitzt auf den bocbsten Gipfeln bober 
Ber^-e und bait sicb in ibrem Wigwam verborgen ; sie scbickt in die Tiefe Tag und 
Nacbt gutes und scblecbtes Wetter, je nacbdem sie gelaunt ist. Sie fabricirt neue 
Monde, scbneidet den alten ab und bangt den neuen auf. Sie scbliesst den Wind in 
den Hoblungen binter den boben Bergen ein. Ein anderes mal steigt sie auf in furcbt- 
barer Gestalt, und der Indianer, der sie so beobacbtet, erwartet nicbts Gutes. 

Zur Zeit der Trocknungen spinnt sie aus Spinnwebe und Morgentbau leicbte Som- 
merwolken und sendet sie vom Gipfel der Berge flockenweise berab, wie Baumwoll- 
flocken, welcbe in der Luft scbwimmen, bis sie von der Sonne aufgelost werden. Sie 
verursacbt das Gras im Friibjabr bervor zu keimen, die Friicbte zu reifen und lasst das 
Korn einen Zoll stiindlicb wacbsen. Wird sie aber auf irgend eine Art beleidigt und 
dadureb verdriessbcb, so kocbt sie die Woiken scbwarz wie Tinte und setzt sicb mitten 
oben auf, so wie eine aufgeblasene Kreuzspinne. 

Wenn diese Woiken brecben, dann webe eucb, ibr Tbaler ! 

Das zweite Panorama der Catskill Berge ist von dem Tburm der City Hall in 
Kingston aufgenommen. 

Von dort oben aus bietet die Fernsicbt ein wunderbares Scbauspiel. Bei meinem 
ersten Besucbe der Catskill Berge empfing icb den grossartigsten Emdruck, als die 
Eisenbabn von Kondout aus das erste Mal Halt macbte. Das ist die Station Wallkill- 
vallev. Man siebt von dort dieselbe Gebirgskette vom Overlook an bis nacb dem 
Catskill Mountain Haus und dort laufen sie scbrag aus. Wer ein Naturfreund ist, und 
nicbt die Gelegenbeit bat, auf den Tburm zu steigen, soil sicb das Scbauspiel an dieser 
Station bei Sonnenaufgang betracbten. Von dem Tburm aus siebt man das Panorama, 
die Formen und die bocbsten Spitzen sammtbcber Berge. Die Partie links ist Higb 
Point. Von dort aus lauft eine fernsicbtbcbe zickzackabnlicbe Gebirgskette bis in die 
Nixbe des Overlook Mountain, welcben man in der Nabe Imks vor sicb siebt. Ein 
kleiuer biigeliger Vordergrund tbeilt die Fernsicbt ab. 



RONDOUT. 



RoNDouT bat einen wunderscboneu kleinen Hafen und da die Stadt etwa 30 Dam- 
pfer besitzt, erfreut sie sicb eines ziemlicb lebbaften Verkebrs. Der Hafen liegt zwi- 
scben zwei Bergen. Zur linkcn Seite befindon sicb scbone LandhiUiser, und zur recb- 
teii Seite liegt die Stadt. Die Strassen dor Stadt sind sebr unregelmassig und ziehen 
sicb in steilcn Wegen bis nacb Kingston binauf welcbes mit Rondout die Stadt Kingston 
bildet. Gleicb vorne am Berge liegt ein bedeutendes. Cement producirendes Berg- 
werk, welcbes dem Besucber viel Interessantes bietet. Es befinden sicb audi hier 



THE GAT SKILL MOUNTAINS. 



verscliiedene Ziegelbrennereien, und die Stadt besitzt einen eiutraglichen Handel in 
Kolilen, Cement und Kalksteinen. In Rondout ist aueh der Anfang der Eisenbahnen 
durcli die merkwiirdigen Catskill Gebirge, und liier beginnt die erste steile Tour der- 
selben. Die Bahnen miissen sich fast foi-twalirend in die Holie winden bis sie endlich 
den hoclisten Gipfel bei Summit erreicht haben. Kingston liegt an dei- Westseite 
des Hudson Flusscs und wurde vor etwa 200 Jabren von den Hollandern gegriindet. 
lu den ersten Jahrzebnten nacb ihrer Griindung batte die Stadt viel von den Indianern 
zu leiden ; nicbt weniger als dreimal brannten sie die Stadt ab, docb trugen die Hollan- 
der selbst alle Scbuld fiir die FeindseHgkeit der Rotbbaute, denn sie iibervortbeUten 
die ludianer bei alien Gelegenbeiten. Im Jabre 1777 wurde die Stadt von 3000, unter 
dem Commando des General Vaughan stebenden britiscben Soldaten vernicbtet. Das 
kraftige, Wort "In den Bergen wobnt die Freibeit" bekundete seine Wabrbeit wieder, 
denn in den bewegten Tagen des Unabbangigkeitski-ieges waren die Einwobner Kings- 
ton's und der Umgebung immer der Union treu ergeben. Hier wurde die erste Staats- 
constitution angenommen, und bier trat die erste gesetzgebende Versammlung des 
Staates zusammen. Hier wurde aucb der erste britische Spion eingefangen ■ — er 
wollte niit einer Depescbe an Clinton zum Feinde iibergeben ■ — diese Depescbe war 
in einer silbernen Kugel verborgen, welcbe er verscbluckte. Er bat sicb selbst verratben 
bei einem Manne, der verstand sein Vertrauen zu gewinnen, und wurde dadurcb an 
einen Apfelbaum aufgebangt. (Bild Seite 9.) 



BISHOP'S FALL. 

Der schone Bisbop's Fall, nabe Olive City, wird von Sommerboarders b'aufig be- 
sucbt, denn er bietet denselben viele Vergniigungen. Unterbalb des Wasserf allies — 
und dies ist auf dem Bilde gut ersicbtlicb — ist ein berrlicb gelegener Platz fiir Boot- 
fabrende und Badende. Recbts und links voni Wassersj^iegel sind viele bobe ausge- 
wascbene Felsenwande ersicbtlicb. Dieser Badeplatz kann mit einem kleinen Lake Ma- 
bonk verglicben werden. Der Wasserfall bangt natiirlicb immer vom Wasserstande ab. 
(Bild Seite 40.) 

HIGH POINT. 

Der pracbtvolle Higb Point Mountain ist etwa 3,300 Fuss boob, und es ist nur 
selbstverst'andlicb dass man von demselben eine wunderscbone, maleriscbe Aussicbt ge- 
niessen kann. Kein Wunder dass derselbe ein Lieblingsort der nacb der Gegend kom- 
menden Besucber ist. Der Berg zeigt das Merkwiirdige, oben auf der Hobe eine nacb 
vorne spitzig zulaufende, zu einem tiefen Felsenabbang fiibrende ebene Fl'acbe zu baben. 
Ein weiteres Naturwunder, das der Berg aufweist, ist eine Quelle, die einer dreieckigen 
Spalte eines auf der Fl'acbe liegenden Felsen entsprudelt. Das Wasser dieser Quelle 
ist den Gesetzen der Ebbe und Flutb unterworfen und sclion mancber Besucber, 
welcber sicb zu einer Stunde des Tages daselbst erfriscbte, bemerkte zu einer spiUern 
Stunde desselben Tages zu seinem fi'appanten Erstaunen, dass die Quelle versiegt sei. 
Beim "Wiederkebren und Verscbwinden bat das Wasser einen schwefelartigen Gescbmack. 
CAm Creek. Bild Seite 41.) 



THE GAT SKILL MOUNTAINS. 



SHOKAN, 

tingefalir 19 Meilen vom Hudson und etwa 533 Fuss iiber dem Wasserspiegel, ist eine 
der Haupstationen der Gregend. Sliokan ist audi ein Centralpunkt wo die Eisenbahn 
reclits einbiegt und links die lioclisten Berge iliren Auslauf nehmen. Hier begiunt auch 
der Eingang in die Berge. In der Naclibarscliaft von Sliokan und zwar zur Linken 
liegt das prachtige Thai Ketchain Hollow, von den Landwirtlien Buslikill genannt. Be- 
findet man sich in dieseni Tliale so stelit man am Fusse der sicli liier erliebenden liocli- 
sten Berge: links der High Point, 3300 Fuss lioch; der South Mountain; der Hannover 
Mountain; der Cornell Mountain, 3900 Fuss hoch; Wittenberg, 3824 Fuss lioch; Kx-euz- 
berg, Simon's Point, der Freitag und der Blackberry Point. Alle diese Berge sind so 
steil, dass man sie von vorne niclit ersteigen kann. 



EINGANG IN DIE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 

Dieses Bild stelit den Eingang in das Gebirge dar. Der Berg zur Linken ist der 
Fuss von High Point ; der zur Rechten ist Simon's Point, und ini Hintergrund ist der 
Cross Mountain zu sehen. Das Bild ist in einer mondhellen Nacht aufgenommen wor- 
den. Das tiefe Thai ist in einem dichten Nebel eingehiillt. Tier Meilen von hier liegt 
Shokan, woselbst man am Fusse der Catskill Mountains anlaiigt. Der Weg links von 
der Eisenbahn fiihrt zum Buslikill Thai, welches sich Aveiter liinter High Point zielit, avo 
sich ein ausgezeichneter Fischbach befindet. (Bild Seite 43.) 



PANORAMA BEI BUSHKILL. 

Das Bild stelit die Beihenfolge der Gebirge dar, welche im Buslikill auslaufen; man 
nennt sie audi Ketcham Hollow. Ich liabe die Skizze von dem Berge gegeniiber Wieg- 
ner's Boai'dinghaus aufgenommen, wo der Weg von Shokan nach Mount Pleasant fiihrt. 
Dieser Punkt ist am leichtesten zu erreichen, was fixr einen Zeichner jedenfalls von Be- 
deutung ist. Es befinden sich daselbst auch mehrere kleine Farmen, und das weiter 
riickw'arts liegende Gebaude ist ein Boardinghaus. Der Platz ist wunderschon, und 
sollte besonders von Touristen und Sommei'boarders, welche ein empfangliches Gemiith 
fiir Naturschonheiten besitzen, besucht Averden. Die erste Bergspitze ist Sam's Point, 
dann folgen Blackberry Point, Cross Mountain, Wittenberg, Cornell und Hanover 
IVIountains, links ist der Fuss von High Point. In diesem herrlichen Thale befindet sich 
ein Bach mit avisgezeichneten Forellen, die in TJeberfluss vorhanden sind. Das Wieg- 
ner'sche Boarding Haus schaut so lieblich aus dem schattigen Walde liervor ; dasselbe 
liegt auf einer Anholie und ist immer schattig und luftig. Das Haus wird gut gefiihrfc 
und ist sehr zu empfehlen. Eine bcsondere Eigenthiimlichkeit ist es, dass gerade dort 
nur 4 Meilen von Shokan sammtliche grossen Berge zusammen auslaufen xind einen 
herrlichen Anblick gcwahreii, Avie ihn schoner die ScliAveiz nicht bieten kann. (Bild S.44.) 



EIN GOTTESACKER IN ULSTER COUNTY. 

In den Catskill Mountains existiren viele Gottesacker, doch die verwahrlosesten 
Platzc fand ich in Ulster County. Man sieht deren manche in den abgelegensten Theileu 



THE CAT SKILL MOUNTAINS. 



der tiefsten Wakler. Manclimal findet man drei bis vier Graber an abgeschwemmten 
Hiigeln. Wer weiss, wie viele Graber mit der Zeit dort ausgewascben wvirden, wodurcb 
die Gebeine der Verstorbenen den Hunden und wilden Bestien der Gegend preisge- 
gebeu worden sind. Die Farmer begraben ilire Todten auf ihren eigenen Grund- 
stiicken, sie jjflegen die Graber auch eine Weile; kommt aber das Grundeigenthum in 
andere H'ande, dann fallen sie der Yergessenlieit anheim und bedauernswertlie Falle 
kommen vor. Das vorliegende Bild zeigt einen solclien verwilderten Platz. Der Berg 
im Hintergrunde ist der High Point. Diese Platze bleibeu meistens unbeachtet. Ich 
konnte mich niclit genug dariiber verwundern, wie eine solcbe gelieiligte Statte von der 
kleinen Einwohnerscliaf t so vernacblassigt werden kann ; es sieht alles so aus, als woUte 
man die Todten niclit nur der ewigen Rube, sondern audi der ewigen Yergessenlieit iiber- 
geben. Da das Grundeigenthum in jener Gegend selir billig ist, so sollte man doch 
denken, dass an der Kirche geniigender Platz zur Erriclitung eines Gottesackers zu 
finden ware. Die dort Ansassigen gehoren doch alle einer Kirchengeineinde an, und da 
es an Solchen niclit fehlt, die bei Lebzeiten die Kirchen in religioser Andacht fiillen, so 
sollten diese doch auch dafiir Sorge tragen, dass nach ihrem Tode ilire und ihrer Lieben 
Gebeine in geweihter Statte rulien sollten. Nur auf diese Weise wird den Hinter- 
bliebenen Gelegenheit geboten, ihre Verstorbenen in ehrendem Andenken zu halten. 
(Bild Seite 42.) 

MOUNT PLEASANT. 

Dieses Bild ist ostlich von dem Little Shandaken aus aufgenommen. Die Aussicht 
giebt uns den untern Tlieil des Thales mit der Briicke iiber den Esopus Creek und 
uber einen kleinen Theil des Mount Pleasant. 

Links ist eine kleine Kirche, gleich nebenan das hiibsche, von schattigen Baumen 
umringte Sommerboardinghaus der Frau Lamson. Ueberhaupt bietet das Little Shan- 
daken fiir Sommerboarders die schonsten Promenaden fiir Reiter, Ausfahrende und fiir 
Fussgiinger. Von Little Shandaken aufwarts beginnt ein jirachtvolles Thai, das sich 
bis Cooper Lake und von da ab gen Meat's House, Twin Mountains, Echo Lake, Over- 
look Mountain House erstreckt. Diesen Weg kann man leicht in einem einzigen Tage 
hin und zuriick machen. Wer eine prachtige Aussicht geniessen will, der gehe iiber La 
Dew Farm nach La Dew Peak, die wir schon auf einer andern Stelle beschrieben haben. 
Nachdem man die erste Plattform passirt hat, bietet sich dem Auge ein prachtvoUes 
Thai und jeder Schritt, den wir weiterhin machen, bringt steten "VVechsel in die herr- 
liche Landschaft. Ein prachtiger Weg, geeignet zum Reiten, Fahren und Promeniren, 
fiihrt vom Escpus Creek liinauf bis zum Tremper House. Eine Meile Weges fiihrt 
links vom Tremj^er House uber den Esopus Creek nach dem W^oodland Thai, Avelches 
wie schon oft bemerkt, ein enges, wildes Thai, und der nachste Weg nach Mt. Witten- 
berg ist. Ein Gesellschaftsausfiug dorthin muss unvergesslich bleiben. Der untere, 
kleine Theil von Mount Pleasant aus beobachtet, sieht wie eine kleine Hohlgasse mit 
kleinem Fusspfad aus. Von dort aus geniesst man eine prachtige Aussicht auf Little 
Shandaken bis liinauf nach dem Overlook. Das hier sich entfaltende Bild veranschau- 
liclit ein Gemalde, wie ein Maler in seinem Ideale es sich niclit schoner gew'artigen 
kann. Mount Pleasant selbst ist ziemlich einformig und schliesst derselbe alien Eingang 
ab. Er erstreckt sich von Boyceville bis nach Woodland Valley. Dort hat man erst die 
Gelegenheit in die hohen Berge der Gegend einzudringen. (Bild Seite 40.) 



10 THE CAT8KILL MOUNTAINS. 

MOUNT PLEASANT. 

Dieses Bild stellt Little Shandaken dar, und ist aufgenommen vom Mount Pleasant, 
wo man direct das Thai vor sicli bat aufw'arts bis nacb dem Overlook. Im Mittelpunkte 
blicken zwei Hauser aus dem Gebirge bervor, die man vor alten Zeiten den Corner, 
nacblier La Dew Farm nannte. Diese Farm ist Eigentbum eines Deutscben, Namens 
Scbumacber, und ist eines der besten Sommerresorts; wird nacb deutcbem System ge- 
fiibrt, und bauptsacblicb von Deutscben besucbt. Yon bier fiibrt ein Fussweg bis auf 
den Summit binauf. Der Berg wird La Dew Peak genannt. Dieser Punkt ist in l^ 
Stunden zu erreicben. Wir sind von der Farm kaum einige 100 Yards entfernt, genies- 
sen scbon die scbone Aussicbt auf das Tbal. Vor uns scbliesst der Higb Point das 
Tbal ab. Weiter links vom Higb Point Berge siebt man die ganze Gebirgskette Sbawan- 
gunk Mountains und Lake Mabouk ; das Tbal unter dem Berge La Dew Peak ist Little 
Sbandaken, wie es uns das Bild zeigt, das sicb bis nacb dem Overlook ausdebnt. Das 
Overlook Mountain Haus siebt wie ein kleiner weisser Fleck aus, und bangt derart am 
Berge, als ob es in der Luft scbwebte, was einen feenbaften Anblick gewiibrt. Hat man 
endlicb den Hobepunkt erreicbt, so geniesst man die scbonste Aussicbt im Umkreis und 
erblickt zu gleicber Zeit iiber das Tbal recbts den Cooper Lake. Direct iiber den Berg 
siebt man Kingston und Rondout, die Hudson Highlands, und der Hudson scblangelt sicb 
wie ein Silberfaden dabin. Eecbts vom Overlook iiber die Berge bis nacb Higb Point Moun- 
tain siebt man das scbone Panorama von einom Ende bis zum anderen. Es ist die Ge- 
birgskette von Vermont, in ibrer vollsten Grosse ; sie erscbeint als ware sie in der Luft 
gemalt. Durcb diese grossartigen Erscbeinungen ist es kein Wunder, dass so viele 
Marcben und Erzablungen, welcbe von Indianern und Hollander berriibi-en, in den 
Catskill Mountains im Volksmunde existiren. Blicken wir nacb recbts, so seben wir zu 
gleicber Zeit die bbcbsten Berge in ibrer voUen Grosse, den Mount Cornell, Wittenberg, 
Cross Mountain, Slide Mountain, Balsam und Pantber Mountains. Es waren die scbon- 
sten Effecte, die icb jemals in den Bergen geseben babe. 

Zur selben Zeit, Anfangs October, war in diesem Gebirge ein furcbtbarer Scbnee- 
sturm, die Wolken erscbienen von der Sonne eigentbiimlicb beleucbtet und ganz dunkel- 
grau, und bingen in langen Fetzen berunter. Durcb Abwecbslung in der Beleucbtung 
erscbien es einerseits als ob die Wolken gleicb Geister dabinzogen, wabrend sie anderer- 
seits wieder einem Panorama in magiscber Beleucbtung glicben. 

Wendet man das Auge riickwarts, so siebt man eine Reibe scbon geformter Berge 
iiber Cbicbester und siebt bis Stoney Clove, Greene County. Dieser La Dew Peak, dessen 
berrlicbe Aussicbten nicbt iibertroffen werden konnen, war bisber giinzlicb i;nbekannt. 
Fiir Touristen und Naturfreunde ist diese Landscbaft besonders zu empfeblen, und bei 
bellem, klarem Wetter kann man das bier Bcscbriebene seben und jeder Besucber kann 
sicb von der Ricbtigkeit des Bildes selbst iiberzeugen. (Bild Seite 47 und 48.) 



STONEY CLOVE. 

Der Zutritt zum Stoney Clove gebt von Pboenicia, Ulster County, aus, an dem 
woblbekaiiuten Tremper Haus und der CHcbester Stubl-Fabrik voriiber, und der AVeg 
zum fabren uud reiten ist ein sebr guter. 

Das Tbal bietet romantiscbe Aussicbten mit vielen Abwecbslungen dar. Je n'aber 
man zum Stoney Clove kommt, desto steilcr wird der Weg und desto wilder die Gegend. 



THE OAT SKILL MOUNTAINS. ii 



Dies ist die nialerische Ansicbt, wo der grossartige Eingang in den Stoney Clove beginnt; 
der Weg ist ganz enge, so dass es schwer fallt einen Durcligang zu finden. 

Das Gebirge links ist nicht nur selir steil, sondern fiihit fast gerade in die Hohe. 
Es ist eine so grossartige Felsemnasse in solcher Hohe, dass sie dem Auge fast uner- 
reichbar scheint. Die Felsenmassen gleichea in der Form den Palisaden am Hudson; 
die Felsenblocke liegen oben wie man sie am Lake Malionk sehen kann. Eine andere 
grossartige Scenerie zur Linken ist der wilde Baumschlag, den man in der Tiefe erblickt. 
Dieser Baumschlag schlangelt sich mitunter zvvischen den Felsenritzen hinauf. Die 
Baume sind verwildert und zerfetzt und mit grunem Moos derart umwachsen, dass man 
sich kaum einen Begriflf von der Wildniss dieser Gegend machen kann. Der Weg zieht 
sich immer zur rechten des Gebirges, der einzigen, die einen Durchgang ermoglicht. 

In der Tiefe sind solche Hohlungen vorhanden, dass sie dem Sonnenlichte uner- 
reichbar sind, vmd mitten ini Sommer daselbst Eis zu finden ist. Die Gegend ist ein 
gutes Versteck fiir Fiichse, Adler und Eulen, und gibt den Jagern Gelegenheit reiche 
Beute zu erlangen. Sobald man sich Greene County nahert, so verandern sich die For 
men der Berge. An der rechten Seite werden sie stets steiler; der Berg wird an dieser 
Seite Stoney Mountain genannt. Die Berge zur linken Seite schneiden plotzlich ab und 
laufeu schrag aus. Der Bergriicken jedoch h'angt mit dem Hunter's Berge zusammen 
und erreicht ungefahr eine Hohe von 4054 Fuss. 

Der Weg zieht sich von rechts nacli links. Sobald man Ulster County verlassen hat, 
bemerkt man abermals eine Aenderung in der Gestalt der Berge. Da das Thai nicht so 
tief liegt, so erscheinen die Berge nicht so hoch wie sie in AVirklichkeit sind. Kechts 
geht der Weg nach Tannersville; die linke Seite des Weges fiihrt den Wanderer dem 
Avolilbekannten Hunter, Greene County, zu. Von Hunter fiihrt der Weg nach Lexino-ton, 
und von Lexington links durch das schone Thai nach Westkill. Wie schon erwahnt, 
fiihrt der Weg rechts nach Tannersville, und von hier nach Cauterskill Clove und Catskill 
Haus. Eine regelm'assige Postverkehr verbindet diese Ortschafteu. Die eine Kichtimg 
der benannten Verkehrszii^e fiihrt durch Tannersville, Stoney Clove und Phoenicia Sta- 
tion, die andere Richtung fiihrt uber Hunter, Lexington, Westkill, dvu-ch die Deep Notch 
Durchpass und Shandaken Station. Dies sind die Passe von Ulster und Greene Coimty. 
(Bild Seite 51.) 

MOUNT SHERIDAN. 

Mount Sheridan liegt 28 Meilen von Rondout, 2300 Fuss iiber den Wasserspiegel. 
Er ist am leichtesen gegeniiber von O'Neil's Boai'dinghaus zu ersteigen. Man geniesst 
von da aus die schonste Aussicht nach dem Thale Shandaken. Shandaken liegt in einem 
tiefen Thai und ist eine der wildesten Gegenden. Es ist ein kleines Dorf ; eine Stuhl- 
fabrik bildet dort nebst einer Sagemiihle die Hauptindustrie ; schliesslich befindet sich 
dort ein Sommerboardinghaus, benanat Lamment's Hotel. Wie schon erwahnt, findet 
man hier die merkwiirdigsten Abwechslungen der Berge. Auf alien Seiten schlangeln 
sich Wege nach verschiedenen Gegenden. Wenn man aber die Hauptstrasse verfolgt, 
so gelangt man durch den Deep Notch, Avelcher in einer Entfernung von 7 Meilen von 
Deo Bros.' Sommer-Resort in Westkill sich befindet. Von der Ostseite des Mt. Sheridan 
erblickt man das Thai Woodland, wie im andern Bilde angegeben. Es ist ein wunderscho- 
nes, wildes Thai. In der Mitte desselben endigt in einer merkwiirdigen Form der Mt. 
Wittenberg. Anfangs sieht sich der Berg an wie der Giebel einer Festungsmauer, die 



12 THE CAT SKILL MOUNTAINS. 

sicli stufenweise bis iifieli dem Hoclipunkte liinauf schlangelt. Die Spitze zeigt die Form 
einer Freibeits Kappe. Von welcber Seite man aucb den Berg betracbten mag, immer 
zeigt or eine merkwiirdige Form. Von bier aus gewinnt man aucb eine kostbcbe Aus- 
sicbfc nacb den gegeniiberbegenden boben Bergen: Mt. Wittenberg, Cross Mountain, 
Cornell Mountain ; der Sbde Mountain liegt in gleicber Linie und endigt gegen recbts 
mit einer langen Biegung. Mit Ausnabme des sebr steilen Slide Mountain sind alle 
Berge am Woodland Tbal leicbt zu ersteigen. Vom Big Indian aus gelangt man nacb 
dem Slide Mountain recbt bequem. Gegen recbts siebt der Slide Mountain mit seiner 
langen Biegung sebr cntfernt aus. Nacb vorne bin b'angen die bier zusammenlaufenden 
Berge alle kettenartig beisammen. Die Pantber- und Balsamberge liegen vorne, gegen 
recbts. (Bilder Seite 52 und 53.) 

SLIDE MOUNTAIN. 

Big Indian Tbal ist der einzige und leicbtesle Weg, um Slide Mountain zu er- 
reicben. Vom benannten Tbalo kann man zum Gipfel des Berges leicbt mit Wagen ge- 
langen, d. b., bis zum letzten Farmer, Namens Dutcber, der zugleicb als Fiibrer zu 
dienen pflegt. Von der Station nacb Dutcber's sind es sieben Meilen. Von der Feme 
aus geseben, siebt dieser Berg infolge seiner langen Biegungen durcbaus nicbt so aus 
als "wenn er der bocbste Av'are. Ein grandioses Scbauspiel bietet sicb dort oben beim 
Sonnenaufgang dar. Es ist nicbt moglicb alles anzufiibren, was von dort oben bevvundert 
werden kann. Alles was erbaben und berrlicb ist, zeigt sicb dort in vollster Pracbt. Wo- 
bin man nur blicken mag, iiberall strablt uns ein neues und wieder scboneres Bild des 
Panoramas entgegen. Die unzablbaren Bergspitzen und zick-zackabnlicben Bergketten 
sind von niegeabnter Scbonbeit, und die unendlicbe Fernsicbt ist von unbescbreiblicber 
Pracbt. Nur wenn man alles dies geseben bat, kann man von diesen Herrlicbkeiten 
einen Begriff liaben. Hinter dem Slide Mountain gebt ein Weg nacb dem Deep Notcb, 
wo der Neversink entspringt. Die scbonsten Sagen, Legenden und Marcben der India- 
ner und Hollander batten bier ibren Ursprung, die Poesie widmet dem Neversink viel 
Auf m crksamkeit. 

Warum nennt man den Berg den Slide Mountain? Weil ein grosser Tbeil 
des Berges von der oberen Spitze auf der einen Seite bis in das Tbal binabrutscbte. 
Die Verwiistungen der Walder, die vor GO Jabren von den damaligen Einwobnern 
angericbtet Avurden, sind leicbt zu erkennen. Seit jener Zeit sind die Nadelgebolze 
wegen der Baumrinde vernicbtet worden, und desbalb ist leider kein ordentlicber 
Tannenbaum anzutreffen. Nacb alien Bicbtungen bin waren Gerbereien und Lobmiib- 
len zu finden. Da die Eisenbabn durcb diese romantiscbe Gegend ibren Weg gefunden, 
sind die Waldungen mit Gewalt zerstort worden; man bedacbte nicbt, dass einst nicbt 
nur die Rinde, sondern aucb der Stamm von boben Nutzen sein konnte. WoUte ein 
Farmer einen Acker anlegen, und diesen vom draufliegenden Holze befreien, so steckte 
er es ganz (^infacb an, und baufig brannte meilenweit das Gebolze ab. Auf diese Weise 
zerstorten unbedacbter Weise Menscben ibr eigenes Kapital und rotteten nicbt nur die 
berrlicbsten Waldungen aus, sondern bescbworen aucb bierdurcb die grossten Feinde 
der Vegetation — Trockenbeit, Sandwiisten — berauf. In den letzten wenigen Jabren 
honnte man aucb den verderblicben Einfluss friiheren Leicbtsinns fiiblen, ausser dem 
Mangel an Holz berrscbt aucb Trockenbeit, und Quellen und Bacbc versiegen. Jetzt ist 
man beflissen, die Scbuld der Alten gut zu macben und Tim den Boden wieder anzu- 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 13 



pflanzen, wird allenthalben Grassamen gesat. Doch gegen die dort vorherrschendeu 
Gewitter ist der Halt ein sehr scliwacher und ein starker Regen wascht den ganzen 
Grund den Berg liinab, wieder nur einen Acker von Steinen hinterlassend. Ein jeder 
Besucher, welcher den Slide Mountain beobachtet, muss von dem verderblichen Einfluss 
eliemaliger Waldzerstorungen nur zu selir iiberzeugt sein, Der Schopfung Weisheit hat 
dies besser gemacht. Die Wurzeln der die Berge bedeckenden Waldungen halten den 
Grund und was darauf steht, fest zusammen. Wenn aber der Wald verniclitet ist, stirbt 
des Baumes Wurzel ab und der Grund verliert seinen Halt. Des Waldes Boden gleicht 
einem jeden Tropfen Wasser einsaugenden Schwamme, der aber auch, wenn notliig, das 
aufgesaugte "Wasser wieder herzugeben vermag, d. b., audi alle Quellen und Bache in 
ihrem natiirlicben Zustand erhalt. Die in diesem Lande fast gauzlich unbekannte Forst- 
wissenscbaft wiirde Amerika von grossem Nutzen sein. Wenn dieses Unwesen noch wel- 
ter so getrieben wird, wo bleiben dann unsere amerikanischen Walder ? (BilderSeite 56 
und 57.) 



PINE HILL, 

39 Meilen vom Hudson und 1660 Fuss hoch iiber dem Wasserspiegel, liegt am Ab- 
schlusse des Thales. Pine Hill ist ein reizendes Dorflein und falirt man am Berge iiber 
demselben vorbei, dann gewalirt es einen herrliclien Anblick. Oberbalb der Station macht 
die Eisenbabn eine Biegung, welcbe die Form eines Hufeisens annimmt. Zwisclien der 
Station bis zum hochsten Punkte der Biegung, Summit gcnannt, liegt eine Strecke von 
zwei Meilen und daselbst ist die Schcidogrenze zwisclien den Counties Ulster und Dela- 
ware, sowie auch die Sclieidegrenze des Wassers. Auf der Seite nacli Pine Hill zu miin- 
det das Wasser in den Hudson und heisst Esopus Creek; auf der andern Seite, nacli 
Griffin's und Dean's Corner zu, und bei Margarettville miindet es in den Delaware. Seit 
langen Jahren ist Pine Hill ein sehr beliebter und stark frequentirter Platz fiir Sonimer- 
boarders. Das Pine Hill Hotel hat wohl nicht das grossartige Aussehen wie die Hotels 
New York's, doch fiihrt Hcrr Cole ein vorziigliches Haus und ist zu jeder Zeit bestrebt, 
durch Billigkeit das Wohlwollen seiner Gonuer sich zu sichern. (Bilder Seite 19 und 20.) 



DELAWARE COUNTY. 

I. BiLD. 

Dieses Bild zeigt die von der Eisenbabn gemachten, wundervollen, bergabwarts 
bis nach Griffin's Corner f iihrenden Biegungen. In der Entfernung erscheinen die Ge- 
birge Delaware County's, in zick-zackahnlicher Form. Der Punkt von welchem das 
Bild aufgenommen worden ist, liegt etwa eine halbe Meile vom Summit und ermoglicht 
von dort eine vorziigliche Uebersicht in siidwestlicher Richtuug iiber das Thai. 
Er liegt am Falu-weg nach Griffin's Corner, die Eisenbabn hat man stets links, hoch iiber 
uns vorbeibrausend. An denselbem Fahrweg begegnet man einem alten Zollthor; dem 
Touristen wird es lieb sein zu horen, dass er daselbst bei den alten Leuten, die in diesem 
Hause wohnen, fiir zehn Cents das beste Glas Milch in den Mountains bekommen kann. 
(Bild Seite 59.) 



14 THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



COMING DOWN TO GRIFFIN'S CORNER. 

Das Bild stellt die Eisenbahn wie sie hoch oben um den Berg herum biegt und sich 
allinahlig, bevor man Griffin's Corner erreiclit, dem Thale zu sinkt, dar. Den Hinter- 
grund bildet das Thai. Wir benierken einen von riickwarts nach der Hohe fiihrenden 
We"-. Dieser Weg leitet uns zur Farm Hatfield's. Das Boardingliaus liegt am hochsten 
Endpunkte des Thales; es liat eine sclione Aussicbt auf die bochsten Berge Greene 
County's und beberbergt inimer eine grosse Anzalil von Sommerboarders. (Bilder Seite 60 
und 61.) 

GRIFFIN'S CORNER, 

eia woblbekannter Platz fixr Sommerboarders, ist 44 Meilen von Rondout entfernt und 
liegt ungefabr 1516 Fuss liocb iiber dem Wasserspiegel. Er ist der erste Platz dieser 
Art in Delaware County und liegt etwa drei Meilen bergabwiirts vom Summit. Die 
Eisenbahn macht hier durch Berge und durcli Schluchten die wundervollsten Biegxmgen, 
doch erreicht sie hier die Bodenfiache nicht. Das kleine Platzchen liegt sehr reizend 
zwischen den Bergen, und wenn die Eisenbahn sich oben auf den Hohen entlang dahin- 
schlano-elt, gewahrt das sich unten erstreckende Dorf einen reclit schonen Anblick. Die 
Geo-end besitzt verschiedene Boardinghauser, doch ist das des Herrn Biihler am besten 
frequentirt. Das Biihler'sche Haus, das erste am Berg, an Avelchem hoch oben die Eisen- 
bahn vorbeifahrt, liegt schon, wird sehr gut geleitet und ist daher den Besuchenden nur 
zu empfehleu. (Bild Seite 21.) 

HALCOTTSVILLE, 

53 Meilen vom Hudson und 1399 Fuss iiber dem "Wassersi^iegel liegend, ist ein wunder- 
schoner, kiihler Platz. An der Briicke, beim Hufschmicd McEntec, ist der Fluss reclit 
breit, gut geeignet zum Baden, Bootfahren und zum Fischen. In der Nahe liegt der 
Bahnhof. 



ROXBURY 

ist 59 Meilen vom Hudson entfernt vind liegt 1497 Fuss hocli iiber der Meerestiache. 
Es ist eine der Hauptstationen und besitzt mehrere Sommerboardinghauser. 

Das Thai ist Avunderschon und breit und hat Aehnlichkeit mit denen, die man in 
siiddeutschen Gebirgen trifft. Die Strasse zieht sich grade durch das Dorf und ist un- 
geftihr eine Meile lang. An beiden Seiten wechseln schone Hauser, Kirchcn und Garten 
mit einander ab. Diese lange Strasse i)assirend zieht sich der Weg rechts nach Grand 
Gorge. Das Thai selbst wird Montgomery Hollow genannt. Wenige Thaler der Welt 
haben ein soldi eigenthiiniliches Aussehen wie das eben genanntc. Ilechts ist es hiigelig 
geformt, man sielit hier die zahllosen Ueberreste der Baumc ehemals bliihender, reicher 
Waldungcn. Die Baumstumpfe, ungefahr 4^ Fuss hoch, stehen roihenweise vor uns 
und verleihen der Scene ein eigenthiiniliches, geisterhaftes Aussehen, (Bilder Seite 22 
und 62.) 



THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 15 



GRAND GORGE, 

(Mobesyille) 

ist G5 Meilen vom Hudson entfernt und liegt 1570 Fuss liober als der Wasserspiegel. Es 
ist eine der herrlichsten, romantisclisten Scenerien in Delaware County. 

Die in Sicht kommenden Berge haben einen recht eigenthiimlichen, merkwiirdigen 
Charakter, und je nalier man denselben komnit, desto enger ziebt sich der Weg zwi- 
schen denselben der Sclilucht nacli zusammen. Der Berg zur Linken lieisst Bald 
Mountain, und der zur Kechten fuhrt den Namen Irish Mountain. In der unmittelbaren 
Nalie des Engpasses, nahe dem Bald Mountain, ist der wundersclion geformte Cobble 
Mountain, und dieser hat eine soldi' lierrliche Form, dass kein Baumeister im Stande 
sein diirfte etwas ahnliches zu errichten. Es ist eine Schichtenmasse von Felsenblocken, 
kiihn iibereinander geh'auft. Die Scblucht ziebt sich endlicb so enge zusammen, dass 
eben nur der Weg, und die Eisenbabn und der Bach sich nocb durchzwangen konnen. 
Dort, zwischen zwei Bergen ist eine bedeutende Quelle und daselbst entspringt der 
Ostarm des Delaware Flusses. (Bild Seite 63.) 

Gleicb beim Ausgange aus der Scblucht befindet sich der Bahnhof. Von bier aus 
nimmt die Eisenbabn eine andere Wendung nach links, und zur linken Seite der 
Eisenbabn laufen diese schicbtenformigen Felsenwande fort. Die Eisenbabn behalt 
diesen nordostUcben Cours auf eine Strecke von 17 Meilen. Der Fabrweg lauft grade 
vom Bahnbofe aus in das Dorf Moresville. Moresville ist ein beliebter Aufentbaltsort 
fiir Touristen. Vom Dorfe aus ziebt sich der Weg links nach Stamford, das mit Mores- 
ville einen regen Verkebr unterbixlt. Endlicb ziehen audi von bier aus die Wege nach 
Gilboa, Windham, Prattsville, Ashland und schliesslich nach Lexington in Greene Co. 



STAMFORD 



ist ungefahr 74: Meilen weit von Rondout und liegt 1767 Fuss iiber dem Meerespiegel. 
Vor alien an dieser Strecke der Eisenbabn gelegenen Ortscbaften ist diese die bochstge- 
legene. Da vom Dean's Corner aus die Eisenbabn immer steigt, so haben diese Platze 
immer den Vorspr&ng, ohne dass sie auf boben Bergen liegen. Die Gebirgsgegend bier 
berum bat denselben Charakter, wie in Greene County. Die Berge scb einen nicbt so 
boch zu sein wie angegeben ist, doch liegt die Ursache biervoii in dem Umstande, dass 
die Thaler selbst sebr boch liegen. Bei Stamford und zwar links am Orte ist der pracbt- 
volle Mount Syanthia, 3365 Fuss boch, auf dessen Hobe ein biibscbes, neues Hotel er- 
ricbtet wkd. Es wird zweifelsohne zu einem der Lieblingsorte werden, da es gut 
gelegen und der Endpunkt der Eisenbabn ist. Alltaglicb gehen zwei Ziige auf jeder 
Seite bin und zuriick und bat man, indem man einen derselben beniitzt, nocb immer Zeit 
genug die Gegend im Laufe eines Tages in Augenschein zu nebmen. Das ist der End- 
punkt der Eisenbabn. (Bild Seile 23.) 



:., ^s^ p^^^-- 



16 THE GATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



Ein Ausflug naeh den Catskills. 



Die merkwurdigste Gegend von Greene County. 

Eine interessante Tour ist die iiber das altbekannte Dorf Catskill. Man kann mit 
del* Hudson River Eisenbahn oder durcli die Albany Dampfer das Dorf erreichen. Von 
dort aus nimmt man eine Stage (der gewohnliche Preis ist $2,) bis nacb dem Laurel 
Haus. Da ist gleicb beiin Haus ein praclitvoller Urwald und der Cauterskill Fall, der 
die Gegend immer kiihl halt. Nicht weit von dort geht der Weg links ab. Von Hiigel 
zu Hiigel ist immer ein schattiger guter Weg. Von diesen verscliiedenen Anbohen ist 
die Aussicht prachtvoU. Theilweise geniesst man von dieser Gegend einen unbescbreib- 
baren malerischen Effect. Immer hat man das alte Mountain Haus hoch oben vor sich. 
Die schon geformten Berge riicken mit ihrem lieblichen blaulichen Ton immer naher, 
bis am Eingang des Cauterskill Clove Alles versohwindet ; ein neues Bild taucht plotz- 
lich vor iinseren Augen auf. Einbiegend in den Clove, sieht man auf beiden Seiten so 
hohe Berge, dass das Auge kaum deren Gipfel erreichen kann. Auf' der linken Seite 
steigt der High Peak empor und rechts South Mt. Dieser bildet den Clove. Gleich 
vorne, hoch oben am South Mt. ist Grand View. Dieses Haus ist jedoch verwahrlost, in- 
dem es einen Anstrich nothig liatte ; so maclit das Ganze nicht den richtigen Effect. 
Dieser prachtvolle Piatz soil einem " bosartigen " Menschen in die Hande gefallen sein, 
der wegen der Concurrenz dieses sohone Haus unter seiner Hand zu Grunde gehen 
lasst. Wie schade, dass auch hier in diesem Lande mit viel Geld nicht nur Gutes, son- 
dern oft auch Boses bezweckt wird. Steht man unten im tiefen Thai und blickt in die 
Hohe, so steht das Haus ungefahr 2500 Fuss hoch auf einem vorstehenden Felsen, wie 
ein Zauber in der Luft h'angend. Es gleicht einem Raubschloss des deutschen Schwarz- 
waldes, das aus seiner stolzen Hohe auf die Menschheit herabschaut. O gliickliches 
Land, welches niemals solche Schlosser kannte ! — Weiter aufwarts trifft man am Weg 
ein Gasthaus und einige andere Hauser. Da wird Halt gemacht, um die Pferde zu 
tranken. Auch ein Kiinstler hat sein Atelier dort ; dasselbe macht sich recht auffallend 
durch seine sonderbare Bauart und Anstrich. Dieser Platz heisst Plainville. 

Biegt man dort aufwartssteigend um die Ecke, so sieht man steil hinab in die Tiefe. 
Da braust und platschert der Cauterskill Bach in vielen kleinen Wasserfallen und windet 
sich schaumend durch bis nach dem Hudson. Das Gebiisch ist sehr iippig und liebHch 
griin. Wenn es nur vor Feuer geschiitzt werden konnte, so hatte man in kurzer Zeit 
wieder einen schonen Wald. Das blendende Sonnenlicht durch das Gebiisch macht oft 
einen zauberischen Eindmck. Hie und da bemerkt man prachtvolle Partien ausge- 
waschener Felsenblocke mitten im Bach liegend. Man kommt an einem Zollhaus vor- 
bei. Von da aus ist es nicht weit nach dem sogenannten Artist Grotto. Es ist von 
merkwiirdiger Form — eine runde ausgewaschene Hohlung. Wenn man unten am 
Rand des Baches an einem Felsen sitzt, so hat man um sich her die schonste Ansicht, 
wie das Bild sie zeigt. Viele Kiinstler und Touristen besuchten den Platz, der wegen 
seiner sonderbaren Beschaffenheit mit Recht " Artist Grotto " heisst. Das Ufer ist aus- 
gehohlt, zum Theil schichtenweis vorstehend, der Grund in prachtvollen Farben schil- 
lernd, theils mit grunem Moos bewachsen, gibt dem Ganzen einen wild-romautischen 



THE a AT SKILL MOUNTAINS. 17 



Anblick. Weiter aiifwarts urn die Ecke biegend, bemerkt man Schicliten Felsenmasseu 
und i^lotzlich vor xma deu Profil Eock ; der Weg fiibrt iiber die Morse Briicke. Diese 
Felsen habeu cine cigentliumliche Figur ; sie strecken sich giatt lioch liinauf, von tiefen 
Felsenriizen, oft 1500 Fuss tief, unterbrochen. Die eine Seite sieht tluirmartig einer 
Festung ahnlicli. Der Profilfelsen ist unten an der kleinen Kustic Briicke, (Morse 
Bridge) genannt, da wo das Wasser eine starke Stromung bat, aufgenoninieu. Man 
sieht ZAvei Wege iiber die leidit gebaute Briicke fiihren, von denen einer sclion bei deni 
Felsen verschwindet. Zu jener Zeit Avar diese Felsenpartie durch ein scbones Streiflicbt 
beleucbtet. Zur Recbten hatte icb das Gebiiscb niedergebalten, uni diese Felsen in 
ibrer vollen Grosse zu betracbteu. Der Weg wird immer steiler und fiihrt uns an einem 
Wasserfall vorbei, dem Fawn's Leap. (Bilder Seitc 26 und 27.) 

Dieser Fall wird wegen seiner lualeriscben Efifecte sebr viel von Kiinstlern be- 
sucbt. Merkwiirdige Legcuden und Sagen existiren bier von alten Zeiten ber. Nicbt 
weit von bier fiibrt uns der Weg an dem woblbekaunten Buttermiicbfall vorbei. Dieser 
sonderbare Name riibrt, giaube icb, daber, dass das Wasser iuimer von Felsen zu Felsen 
stiirzt, und sicb so zerschaumt, dass es yi der Fernc aussiebt, v/ie ein weisscr Flor. 
Dieser Fall liegt links voni Clove und vom Weg. Das Wasser sammelt sicb zwiscben 
High Peak und Round Top und stiiubt sicb von Felsen zu Felsen von einer gewaltigen 
Hobe berab, bis es sicb mit dem Bacb vereinigt. Man bemerkt oft in diesem Tbal ver- 
scbiedene alte Reste von Hausern und Lobmiihlen, ein Zeugniss davon, wie seiner Zeit 
die scboncn Waldungen mit Gewalt vernicbtet wurden. Der Weg steigt immer steiler 
an und das Tbal bat man jetzt tief unter sicb. Da kommt man iiber die Briicke des 
wirklicben Cauterskillbacbes, der sicb von dort aus tief unten im Tbal mit dem Haines 
Bach vereinigt. Von dieser Briicke aus nacli rechts ^birch den Clove erreicht man das 
Laurel Haus in einer balben Stunde. Der Fabrweg von dieser Briicke aus gebt so steil, 
dass ein Pferd kaum eincn leeren Wagen vorw'arts bringen kann. Der Weg windet 
sicb immer holier und holier bis oben endlich. das Land tafelformig aussiebt. Haines 
Fall auf der linken Seite am Ende des Thales ergiesst sich iiber einen hervorstehenden 
glatten Felsen, platscbert senkrecbt binunter in die Tiefe flimmernd wie Crystall. 

Hat man die Hochebene erreicht, so kommt man am Haines Fall und am Sommer- 
ressort vorbei. Blickt man in der Niihe von Haines Sommen-essorfc an einem boben 
Punkte nach riickwlirts, so hat man den tiefen Clove vor sich, denn das ist der Punkt, 
wo das Thai abscbliesst. Diese Hochebene gewiunt dadurch eine Elevation von iiber 
2000 Fuss. Herrlich und stolz gleicli vorne hocli oben am South Mt. bemerkt man 
vorstehende Felsen, den Sunset Rock, niimlich an dem Punkt, wo man eiuige scblanke, 
bocbgewaebsene Baume mit ibren luftigen Kronen sieht, wodurch der Sunset Rock 
leicht erkeniibar ist. Nach rechts ist der High Peak mit seiner Sjiitze in die Wolken 
reichend. Durch die Oeffnung hindurch geniesst man einen wunderschonen Anblick 
auf das Hudson Flachlaud. In dieser Entfernung schimmert es einem vor den Augen 
wie ein blaulicher Dunst und verschwindet mit der Luft. 

Von da an zieht sich der Weg etwas abwarts bis iiber eine Briicke. Unter ihr 
fliesst das reine Quellenwasser, das dem Haines Falls zustromt. Die Briicke passirend 
biegt man plotzlich nach rechts um die Ecke, man nennt dies den Haines Corner. 
Hier zieht sich der Weg aufwiirts iiber einen Bergriicken. Man sollte niemals unter- 
lassen an solchen Punkten riickwiirts zu sehen. Von da aus hat man abermals rings- 
um eine prachtvoUe Aussiebt, besonders in der Richtung iiber Taunersville und 
Hunter. 



THE GAT SKILL MOUNTAINS. 



Erreiclit man den Hochpunkt, so erblickt man jjlutzlich links das neue Cauterskill 
Hotel. Dieses scliaut so lieblich aus dem Griinen liervor wie ein jirachtvolles Schloss 
Europa's. Eine Biegung iind der Weg fiihrt etwas abwilrts mid ist von dort aus mit 
schattigen Baumen bedeckt und plotzlicli hat man das Laurel Haus vor sich. Welcher 
Contrast! Wie schon liegt das Haus in einer Art Holilgasso scbattig, luftig und 
kiilil. Dieser Platz ist von alten Zeiten her dafiir bekannt. Und soUte im Haus selbst 
die Hitze unertraglich werden, so ist dem leicht abzuhelfen. Man hat einen pracht- 
vollen Urwald gleich vor der Thiire. Es scheint, dass der Eigenthiimer, Hr. I. L. Schutt, 
den werthvollen Wald zu schatzen und ihn in seinem natiirlichen Zustande zu erhalten 
weiss. Wir finden hier prachtvolle Spazierwege, parkartig angelegfc. Nach links fiihren 
Treppen hinunter, ungefahr 200 Fuss tief, und plotzlich liort man den unbeschreibbaren 
Fall prasseln. Er verursacht ein Rauschen und mitunter Geprassel, als wiirde das 
Summen und Sausen von Feucrcrackers unterbrochen. Unten auf der Plattform 
angekommen, geniesst man einen unbeschreibbaren Anblick ; man sieht das Wasser 
aufplatschern und blitzschnell nach alien Richtungen zerstieben. Das Wasser sam- 
melt sich dann wieder und stiirzt sich in die zweite Hohlung ungefahr 50 Fuss tief. 
Unten am zweiten Fall ist eine Briicke gleich neben an einem grossen Felsen, wo man 
das Schauspiel gut betrachten kann. Durch Sonnenbeleuchtung, wenn der Luftzug 
giinstig ist, sieht man ein uberaus prachtiges Farbenspiel ; der Hauj^tsturz schiesst mit 
furchtbarer Gewalt iiber einen vorstehenden Felsen 185 Fuss in die Tiefe und verur- 
sacht dadurch ein eigenthiimliches, wildes Prasseln. Wie diesen Cauterskill-Fall hat 
die Welt keinen zweiten aufzuweisen, mit den furchtbar hervorragenden Felsblocken 
und den schichtenweise rundlaufenden Hohlungen, iiber die sich weit weg der Fall 
stiirzt, dann zum zweiten Falle stiirmt, bis e3- endlich nach mannigfaltigen Abwechslun- 
gen schaumend durch den Clove den Haines Bach erreicht. Von oben herabgesehen, 
wo das Wasser mit einer furchtbaren Gewalt iiber die Felsen in die Luft hinausstiirzt, 
sieht es nicht mehr wie solches aus, sondern gleicht grossen Schneemassen, die in die 
Tiefe stiirzen und unten blitzschnell nach alien Richtungen zerstieben. 

Betrachtet man Morgens bei hellem Sonnenschein den Fall von unten aus, wenn 
die Sonnenstrahlen durch den Wald dringen, und den aufsteigenden Wasserstaub be- 
leuchten, so erscheint derselbe wie Silber- und Goldstiiubchen, die vor den Augen auf- 
rmd niederflimmern. Durch den Wind wird der Wasserstaub oft weit iiber die Grenzen 
des Falles hinausgetrieben. Dadurch erscheint er dem Auge nicht mehr wie ein ge- 
wohnlicher Regenbogen, sondern die Natur zeigt uns alle Farbeu in ihrer vollen Pracht 
wie ein Zauber. Schon manches herrliche Bild wurde an diesem Falle in's Dasein ge- 
rufen. Wenn es als Regel gilt, dass die Bilder schoner ausfallen, als die Natur selbst 
ist, so ist dieses hier nicht der Fall ; denn noch ist es keinem Kiinstler gelungen, den 
Effect so wiederzugeben, wie ihn das Naturgemalde auf den Beschauer direkt ausiibt. 
Die Herrlichkeit der Scenerie spottet dem Pinsel sowohl wie der Feder. Hingerissen 
von ihrer Pracht, ruft man aus : "Miichtig ist die Schopfung, miichtiger als je ein Men- 
schenherz emp finden kann!" (Bild Seite 28.) 



HAINES FALL. 

Oberhalb des Falles hat man cine wunderschonc Aussicht auf den Cautcrskill 
Clove und eine prachtvolle Durchsicht auf das Hudson Flachlaud. Schaut man in die 



THE CATBKILL MOUNTAINS. 19 



Tiefe, so liat es das Ausselieii, als wiire eiiist die Erde durcli eine Eruption ausgehohlt 
und die Ueberreste der Felsen vor die Hohlung gesclileudert worden. 

Diese grossen Steine sind glatt gewascben, und grosse Baumstamme liegen zerfetzt 
umber. Grosse Felsenblocke stebeu oben mebrere Yards in die Luft binaus, iiber 
welcbe das Wasser senkrecbt binunter stiirzt. Wie unbedevitend siebt das kleine 
Biicblein aus, welcbes da binunter platscbelt, und wie furcbtbar gabnt da ein Abgrund. 
Von einen Fall bis zu dem andern sind es ungefabr 300 bis 400 Fuss. In diesem 
Abgrund liegt alles zerscbmettert limber. Dies legt Zeugniss ab, zu welcber furcbt- 
baren Grrosce das Wasser durcb die scbweren Gewitter, die dort stattfinden, oft an- 
scbwellen muss. Dass der Wasserfall im Sommer sebr arm an Wasser ist, ist nicbt 
zu verwundern, wenn man die Gegend betracbtet, wo das kleine Baclilein seine Herkunft 
bat. Es ist reines Quellenwasser und crystallbell. Nicbt wie das Wasser vom Cauters- 
kiil Fall ungeniessbar ist, weil es von den beiden Seen, Nord- und Siid-See, berkommt 
und sebr scblammig und triib aussielit. Yor alten Zeiten war dies ein gefiircbteter 
Platz, wie uns die Legenden erzablen. In den zwei Seen soUen Sclilangen und Un- 
tbiere gebaust baben, docb ist jetzt dort keine Spur davon mebr zu entdecken. Da ja 
scbon lange diese Gegend ein moderner Tummelplatz geworden ist, so ist aucb von dem 
berrlicben Urwald keine Spur mebr zu finden. Ein scboner Fabrweg trenut diese 
zwei Seen ; man bat von dort aus eine wunderscbone Aussicbt auf das neue Hotel 
Kaaterskill; es ist nicbts mebr von der alten Wildniss zu finden. (Bild Seite 31.) 

Es ist olme alle Zweifel, dass diese Sagen von alten Zeiten berstammen, als die 
Gegend nocb in ibrem natiirbeben Zustand existirte. Da beute nocli das Wasser in den 
zwei Seen triib und scblammig ist, so konnen aucb jetzt nocb keine Forellen dort leben. 
Dcukt man slcb aber bundert Jabre zuriick, und betracbtet den furcbtbaren Cauters- 
kill Fall, so ist es selbstverstandlicb, dass die Natur selbst solcbe Sagen bervorgerufen 
bat. Das kleine Baclilein oberbalb des Haines Falls, ziebt sicb direct nordwestlicb, wo 
das Tbal breit ausgelegt und die Gegend biigeJig ist, bis nacb den boben Bergen. Man 
kann dies nicbt mebr Hocbwald nennen, denn da ist nicbt einmal mebr ein scbattiger 
Buscb zu finden. Dieses kleine Bacblein ist immer der Sonne ausgesetzt, es ist zu 
verwundern, dass im Sommer nocb ein Tropfen Wasser dem Fall zufliesst. Waren die 
Waldungen erbalten Avorden, so wixrde aucb das Bacblein das ganze Jabr erbalten 
geblieben sein. Wenn es mit der Verwiistung so fortgebt, so kann die zukiinftige 
Generation sagen, was man jetzt vom beibgen Lande sjDricbt, dass Ueppigkeit und roman- 
tiscbe Scbonbeit da geweseu war. Einst war bier der Cauterskill und da war Haines 
Fall. Wo sind sie geblieben? Ivein Troj^fen Wasser zu finden, wiiste Locber und 
sandige Gegend sind die Wirkungen der Waldverwiistung ! Jetzt ist es nocb Zeit ! 
Wie i-ippig und saftig ist bier das Griin, wie duftig die Luft im Friibjabr! Jetzt 
konnen wir nocb die pracbtvolle Scbopfung bewundern und finden aucb nocb fiir wenig 
Geld freuudlicbo Aufnabme. 

Der Haines Fall liegt am Scliluss des tiefen Tbales, das man Cauterskill Clove nennt. 
Ueber deni Fall erstreckt sicb ein breites bocli ausgelegtes Tbal tafelformig iiber Hunter 
und Lexington bis nacb Westkill Notcb. Betracbtet man den Fall von unten mit seinem 
ersten Sturz so stellt dieser eine Hoblung von 100 Fuss dar, in welcber tbeilweise die Fel- 
senblocke in einer scbwindelnden Hobe bervorragen, iiber die das Wasser senkrecbt ber- 
nieder stiirzt auf verscbicdene kleine Felsenscbicbten. Danu stronit es zusammeu- 
gedriingt nacb vorne ungefabr 20 Fuss binter die berumliegenden Felsen. Grade in der 
Mitto nacb vorn liegt ein fuicbtbar grosser Felsenblock, diurcli den das Wasser dem Auge 



20 THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 

?■ "1 

entzogen wird. Von da aus driickt sicli das Wasser zwisclien deu herumliegeuden 
Felsblocken durcli bis nacli dem zweiten Fall. Dieser isfc ungefiilir 40 Fuss tief. Von 
dorfc aus fiihren weitere Treppeu nacli der Tiefe und man gelit von rechts zur linken 
Seite und steigt liinunter soweit die Leitern angebraclit sind. Es ist jedocli Jeder- 
mann zu warnen nicht allein tiefer zu dringen, sonst konnte es passiren, dass man den 
Kiickweg abgesclmitten findet. Unten angekommen, setzt man sicli so viel wie moglich 
nach der Mitte auf diese Felsen. Von da aus betraclitet man sicli das Scliauspiel. 
Eine schwindelnde Holie von 400 Fuss nacli aufw'arts, eine eng zusammengezogene 
Scliluclit, kauni dem Auge erreiclibar. Das Sonnenliclit dringt spaiiicli liindurcli 
Senkreclit steigen die Felsen in die Holie, von griinem Gebiiscli bescliattet. Dadurcli 
verursaclit das Sonnenliclit einen schimniernden eigenthiimliclien Effect. Riclitet man 
das Auge riickwarts, so erblickt man den fiinf Cascaden Fall in volier Majestat. 
Der lualeriscliei Effect von liier aus ist fast unbesclireiblicli. Icli liabe eine correcte 
Skizze davon angefertigt, damit der Leser sicli einen klareii Begrifl' davoii macben 
kann. Aber wie scliwacli gegen die Natur selbst ! INIan sagt gewolmlicli die Bilder 
seien sclioner und das Papier sei geduldig. Aber das ist liier durcliaus iiiclit der 
Fall. Icli moclite den Kiinstler selieu, dem es gelingen wiirde mit seinen Farben die 
Natur liier audi nur aunahernd bildlicli darzustellen. So liat jeder der zwei Fiille 
seine eigene Scbonlieiten. Man kann nicht sagen, welches Wunder das grossere ist. 
(Bild Seite 30.) 

Halbwegs zwisclien dem Dorfe Catskill und den Bergen theilt sicli der Wcg. Der 
eine fixlirt links nach dem Cauterskill Clove. Will man dagegen das Mountain House 
direct erreichen, so nehne man den Weg rechts. Dieser Weg ist gut und von Hiigcl zu 
Hiigel hat man immer eiii schones Panorama vor sicli, bis man den Wald und Hochpunkt 
erreicht hat. Wir sind nun in der Gegend von Eip Van Winkle's Glen, so genannt von 
unserem grossem Poeten Irving. Es ist kein Wunder, dass dieser Dichter solcher erlia- 
benen Poesie in dieser Gegend Motive fasste; denn liier ist es wild-romantisch schon; da 
Irving in dieser Gegend umber w^anderte, ist es sehr begreiflich, dass der Flug seines 
Geistes ihn hoch emportrug. Daher komnit ihm die Sage von Eip Van Winkle sehr ge- 
legen. Diese Geschichte, welclie auch oft auf der Biihne aufgefiihrt wird, ist wohl 
jedeni bekannt. Hier durch das sclione Thai platschert ein kleiner Bach herab und 
fiihrt an einem grossen flachen Felsen vorbei. Auf dieseni breiten Felsen steht eine 
alte verwetterte Hiitte, genannt Rip Van Winkle's Haus, welches ich von unten, aufwiirts 
durch die Hohlgasse gesehen, abgebildet liabe. Uebcr der Tliiire der Hiitte bcmerkt 
man ein Bild ; es stellt den alten Rip Van Winkle vor. Auf der auderen Seite bcmerkt 
man eine Wirthschaft aus alten Zeiten, welche als ein Erholuugsplatz benutzt wurde. 
Von da aus windet sich der Weg auf der Seite aufwiirts. Der Nord-Berg zieht sich 
ziemlich schriig auswarts, steil liinauf ; plotzlich uni die Ecke sieht man das Mountain 
Haus, hoch oben vor uns auf einem grossen hervorstehenden Felsen. Es hat von diesem 
Punkt aus einen imposanten Anblick. (Bild Seite G5.) 



Eeschreibung des Catskill Mountain House, Greene Co. 

Das alte wohlbekaunte Catskill Mountain Haus wurde 1824 gegrundet und liegt 12 
Meilen wcstlich vom Dorf Catskill, 2700 Fuss iiber dem AVasscrspiegel. Dieses alto 
Sommerresort, das altestc in der Gegend, ist aul" einer grossen vorstehenden Platform er- 



THE GAT SKILL M0UNTA12^8. 21 

baut. Von ibm kauu man sagen, viele Jalii-e lang hast clu immer im Sturm gelebt. Es 
stebt aber so felsenfest, class es mit den stiirmiscben Elementen in diesen Gloria Moun- 
tains Gleicbgewicbt bait. Das Hotel bat immerbin eine auserwablte Lage, indem die 
Gegend in seiner Nacbbarscbaft vor alten Zeiten bevolkert war und die woblbekannten 
indianiscben und bollandiscbeu Sagen bauptsacblicb dort zu Hause sind. Unser grosser 
Kiinstler Tb. Cole bat dort gelebt. AUe unsere alten Literaten und Dicbter baben dort 
geweilt ; und es lasst sicb Mancbes von dort erzablen. Gleicb vorne an den Bergen ist 
die Scenerie sebr vieltaltig und naeli alien Ricbtungen bin befinden sicb scbone Spazier- 
wege, besonders nacb den woblbekannten Wasserf alien dort in der Nacbbarscbaft. Etwa 
\ Stunde binter dem Hotel sind "Nortb und Soutb Lakes" gelegen. (Bild Seite 07.) 

Von dort aus sind es secbs Meilen bis nacb Danville. Danville ziebt sicb nacb der 
Lange und sind sebr viele Board ingbauser dort, welcbe zerstreut liegen. Von Danville 
bis Hunter sind es vier Meilen. 



SOUTH & NORTH SEE. 

Im Hochland von Siid und Nord Bergen, wo das Land tafelformig aussiebt, sind 
zwei Seen. Die grosste ist der Siidsee (Soutb Lake) vom Nord-Berg aus aufgenommen. 
Dieser See liegt in einem Versteck von iippigen Waldungen. Das Wasser ist iiber- 
wucbert von Sumj)fpflanzen und Lilien, auf deren breiten Blattern sicb an beissen Som- 
mertagen die Wasserscblangen gemiitblicb sonnen. Von dieser Gegend riibren die 
scbauerlicbsten Erzablungen ber, sebr natiirlicb, da die Gegend mit unangenebmen In- 
secten und der See mit Scblangen gefiiUt war, bingegen der Menscb und das Wild 
sicb davon fern gebalten baben. Dieser Platz war in alten Zeiten sebr geftircbtet ; kein 
Jager traute sicb dem Gebiiscbe nabe zu kommen. Der tapfere Indianer sogar, welcber 
sicb nicbt fiircbtet mit den wildesten Bestien zu kampfen, batte eine Furcbt vor der Ge- 
gend. Ein kleiner Bacb von diesem See aus bildet den Cauterskill Fall und fliesst direct 
westlicb nacb den Grenzen der Berge, bis er die ixussere Kante erreiebt bat. (Bild S. 69.) 



ANSICHT VOM SUNSET ROCK. 

Von diesem Punkt aus nacb aufwarts geseben, ist das Land oben tafelformig. Es 
ist eiiie ziemlicbe Strecke bis zur Gebirgskette Hunter's Mountains, welcbe durcb die Ent- 
^ernung blaulicb erscbeinen. Unten im Tbal scblangelt sicb das Gewasser von Haines 
Fall durcb ; jedocb im Sommer ist es ofters eingetrocknet. Die ausgewascbenen Steine 
und die gi'ossen Massen zerfetzten Holzes, welcbe da zerstreut umberliegen, legen Zeug- 
niss ab, welcbe Gewalt oft der Fall und Strom mit wildem Brausen und furcbtbarer 
Force dort ausiiben. Von da aus iiber die Flacbe bin geseben, siebt die Vegetation 
uppig aus und es ist angenebm, in das sanfte Griin zu scbauen. Die Gegend ist mit ge- 
miscbtem Baumscblag (Hickory, Butternuss und Nadelbolz) bewacbsen. Nacb dei' Hobe 
zu ist der Boden mit licblicbem Moos bedeckt. In dem Vordergrund ist, wio das Bild 
zeigt, ist cine bobe graue Felsenmassc, in den Spalten bie und da mit vcrwettertem und 
zerfetztem Nadelbolz bcwac sen. Die Felsen sind mit griinlicbem Moos bedeckt und 
geben dem Gauzeu einen zauberiscben Anblick, besonders durcb das Zwiscbcnlicbt in 
den Felsenritzen, welcbe mit Moos bewacbsen, wecbseln die Farben so sonderbar xand 
geben in alio Abtouung iiber wie ein Regenbogen. (Bild Seite G8.) _ 



22 THE CAT SKILL MOUNTAINS. 



Das Panorama vom Black Dome aus bei Tannersville. 

Der Black Dome ist etwas iibcr 4000 Fuss hocli. Von dieser Seite aus iiacli Ulster 
und Greene County hat man eine Uebereiclit iiber sammtlicbe merkwiirdige Berge mit 
ihreu Hocbspitzen, wie sie aus dem Nebel liervorragen. Dieses Bild stellt die Gegend 
ganz so dar, wie sie der Indianer, wenn er von " Mountains in the Sky " spricht, geseben 
baben musste. Wenn man den im scbarfen Sonnenlicbte wogenden Nebel betracbtet, 
wie er sicb auf den Gij)feln der Berge berum\Yalzt, so gewabrt dies Alles einen gespen- 
sterbaften Anblick. Es scbeint als scliaukelten sicb die Geister aus dem Wigwam da 
oben auf den Wolken. Die von bier oben sicbtbare Gegend Greene County's ist der 
Sitz wo Thomas Cole gelebt bat. Hier scbojDfte der grosse Kiinstler die Motive zu 
seinem tinsterblicben Werke, " Tbe Voyages of Life," (Die Reise durcb das Leben,) dar- 
gestellt in einer Beibenfolge von vier Bildern. (Bild Seite 71.) 



HUNTER. 

Hunter liegt in einem breit ausgelegten Tbale und besitzt gute "Wege nacli alien 
Ricbtungen bin. Das Merkwiirdigste der Gegend Hunter's ist der nur drei IMeilen ent- 
fernto Stony Clove. Hunter Mountain ist der grosste Berg Greene County's und er- 
reicbt eine Hobe von etwas iiber 4000 Fuss. Dem Dorfe gegeniiber liegt Cornel Cbair 
Mt, etwa 1500 Fuss bocb iiber dem Dorfe. Hunter besitzt alle Beqviemlicbkeiten cincr^ 
grossen Ortes, wie z. B. Post- und Telegrapben-Stationen, Omnibusse, Kaufladen aller 
Arteu, Kircbeu und Scbulen ; man befindet sicb daselbst nicbt in der "VVildniss, sondern 
in der Cultur. Die Entfernung von Hunter nacb Lexington ist etwa ncun und die vom 
letzteren Orte bis nacb Westkill etwa drci Meilen. (Bilder Seite 35 und 37.) 



DEEP NOTCH UND WESTKILL. 

Von "Westkill nacii Shandaken. 

Dies ist einer dor romantiscbsLen Puitzc in Groono und Ulster County. Es ist der 
Engpass dor dicso bobcn Berge durscbneidet und die zwci genannten Counties von 
einandoi- scbeidct. W\i Itecbt fiibrt cr den Namen Deep Notch. Von Lexington bis 
n:ich Westkill crstrcckt sicb eiu romantisches Tlial, und ein auf unserm Bilde sicbtb.irer 
Pfad I'iibrt bis vor das Thor des von don Briidern Dv.yo geleitcten Hotels. Achnlich 
wie in den in curopiiisclu^n Gebirgsgegenden liegenden Erbolungsplatzen liegt dieses 
Hotel recht romantis(!b am Fusse des Berge;; und nur Avenige Schritto vom Hotel 
entfernt liegt der Deep Notch, und man ist in der Wildniss. Jc weiter man gegen 
Ulster County zuscbreitet, desto interessanter wird der l^higpass, und wiire Stoney Clove 
nicbt wilder und steiler, so konntc man den Deep Notch mit ibm vergleichen. Vom 
Hotel der Herren Deyo Brother.-; sind es sieben Meilen bis nacb dem Lamout's 
Hotel, Shandaken, und l)est(!]it audi oin regelnmssiger, laglicher Postverkehr zwischen 
dicsou Punkton. (Bild Seite I'l.) 



THE CAT SKILL MOUNTAINS, 23 



Diese Catskill Berge bioten in deu drei bedeutendsten Bezirken, Ulster, Greene und 
Delaware Counties, soweit icli sie bis jetzt bereist liabe, eine nnbesclireibbar vielfaltige 
Abwechslung dar, wie man sie selbst in der Scliweiz kaum nialeriscber finden kanu. 
Man braucht fiinf voile Sommer-Saisons, urn einen richtigen Begriff von den prachtvol- 
len Catskill Bergen zu bekommen. Selbstverstandlich muss man immer eine andere 
Piiclituug einscblagen ; auf diese Weise sielit man jedes Jahr etwas Neues. 

Aber im Hotel oder Boardinghaus darf man niclit sitzen bleiben, sondern muss die 
Nacbbarschaft nacli alien Kichtungen durclistreifen oder mit einer Gesellschaft Ausfliige 
macben, deun dies ist unbedingt notliwendig zur Gesundheit. Die reine Luft scharft 
den Appetit, und man erf rent sicli an der romantisclien Umgebung ; so erreicht man 
einen doppelten Zweck. "Welclie scbone Gelegenheit hat uns liier die Natur geboten, 
wo die Berge so nalie bei New York liegen ! 

Tausende von Mensclienleben konnten, besonders unter den unbemittelten Klassen, 
jeden Sommer gerettet werden, denn die armen, kleinen, biilflosen Kinder miissen der 
verpesteten Luft in der tropiscben Hitze ixnterliegen. 

Warum gibt es nicbt noch mebr Peter Cooper in der Stadt New Yoi-k? — Hier 
liatte ein Millionar Gelegenbeit, sicb zu verewigen, und solcli ein "Werk ware unvergess- 
licber als alle Obelisken in der Welt. 

Es gibt Viele, welcbe die Gelegenbeit beniitzen konnten. Mancber hat die Mittel, 
aber nur Wenigen ist es bekannt. Man braucht nicbt besonders reich zu sein, um seine 
Familie in den heissen Sommertagen dorthin zu schicken. Boardinghauser und Hotels 
hat es dort viele, und bei Farmern kann man billig leben, so dass es sicb Jeder nach 
seinen Verhiiltnissen heraussucben kann. 

Man schreibt zuerst an die betreffenden Hauser, die in dem Bvicb bemerkt sind, um 
sicb die Bedingungen einzuholen. Dessbalb babe ich dieses illustrirte "Werk so dar- 
gestellt, dass ein Jeder einen klaren Einblick und einen zuverlassigen Fiihrer in dieser 
Gegend erbalte. 

Wer fiir Naturscbonbeiten ein empfanglicbes Gemixth bat, kann leicbt begi-eifen, 
warum ich die Catskills bescbrieben babe ; denn Tag fiir Tag wechseln die Scenerien 
und Stunde fiir Stunde wechselt das Colorit. 

Wer das begreift, hat die richtige Naturanschauung und wird sicb von der Wabr- 
heit meiner Besclu-eibungen ixberzeugt linden. Wer dagegen reges Leben und Concerte 
mebr liebt, beti-acbtet die Welt wieder ganz anders. Ich babe sebr lixstige Gesellscbaf- 
ten getrolien, die ibre Ausflixge machten ; sie waren so lustig und lebensfroh, tanzten, 
sangen und fiiblten sich frei wie der Vogel in der Luft ! Diese freie Bewegixng ixnd 
Geselligkeit kann man nur in den Bergen linden. Allerdings hat man in den Bergen 
keine Concerte wie in den fashionablen Badeplatzen. Ein Gescliaftsmann, der das ganze 
Jahr in angestrengter Tb'atigkeit, im Tumxxlt und obne Rast zubringt, bi-aucbt Rube 
xmd gesunde Lxxft zur Erbolung. Ixi dieser Beziehung kann man die Catskill Berge 
bestens empfehlen. 

Fixr nixr wenig Geld, anderthalb Dollars, fahrt man von New York aus in diese scbone 
Gegend bis direkt in die Berge ixnd hat dabei noch Gelegenbeit, deu hubschen Hudson 
zu bewundern. Man nimiut die Albany Tagboote nach Rhiuebeck oder die direkten 



24 THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS. 



Boote nacli Eondout, oder die Hudson Kiver Eisenbalm nacli Rhiiiebeck. Von dort aus 
nimmt man die Ulster und Delaware Eisenbalin. Es ist sehr notliwcndig das Publikuin 
darauf aufmerksam zu machen, besonders die Grossstadter und Solclie, die in den See- 
stadten leben, wie nnglaublicli woliltliuend der Weclisel von der Salzluft nacli der rei- 
nen, slissen Bergluft auf den Korjier wirkt. Der Franzose sagt : "In der Luft ist der 
Champagner ;" die Aerzte schicken ihre Patienten daliin, uni ilinen die Natur als Doctor 
zu empfelilen. Wie sclion und ungestort lebt man dort ; es sclilaft sicli so gut in der 
siissen Bergluft in den lieissen Somniertagen. Man wird niclit gestort von jenen lang- 
beinigen, woblbekannten, musicirenden Insecten, die, eincm urn die Obren summend, 
den Indianertanz auflfiilu-en — den Mosquitos, die nur zu liilulig am Seestrande und fasli- 
ionablen Sommerplatzen bauptsachlicb zu Hause sind. Es ist dies sebr natiirlicli, denn 
wo aucb man sich im Sommer in der Umgcgend von New York bcfindet, inimer ist man 
in der Nabe von grossen Siimpfen, welcbe sclilecbte Luft und Mosquitos bcrvorbringen 
und so den Aufentbalt daselbst unertriiglicb macben. Fieber und dergleicben Plage n 
kennt man in den Catskill Bergen nicbt. 

Icb boffe, dass das Publikum diesem illustrirten Werke seine geneigte Aufmcrk- 
samkeit scbenken wird, und dadurcb den Unternebmer in seinem Bestreben, jedes Jabr 
nacb weiteren, unbekannten Stellen zu forscben, anfeuert. 



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